Greenwich Borough chosen to kick-off ITV Sport's FA Cup coverage

Wednesday 04th August 2010

GREENWICH BOROUGH have been boosted ahead of the new season with the news that ITV Sport will be sending a film crew down to cover their FA Cup return, writes Stephen McCartney.

The Safety Net Associates Kent League club were kicked out of their former ground at Harrow Meadow in Eltham just over a year ago as Greenwich council sold the land for housing.

But they secured a three-year groundshare deal with Bromley based rivals Holmesdale last summer, and their FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round tie against Cherry Red Records Combined Counties League side South Park (who are based in Reigate, Surrey) on Sunday 15th August (3pm) will have the unpaid players of Greenwich Borough aiming to impress.

Manager Steve Firkins, who also doubles up as the club secretary, works tirelessly on and off the pitch - alongside a small band of volunteers - to keep the club afloat.

But the club’s first game in the FA Cup for six years has attracted the exposure that the smallest supported club in the division urgently needs.

Greenwich Borough, an entirely amateur club, kick-off their league campaign with a trip to Fisher on Saturday, but their FA Cup game the following weekend has certainly got his players buzzing.

“At first I thought someone was winding me up, but I replied and after another email and telephone conversation today I can confirm that ITV Sport will be at Oakley Road on 15th August,” Firkins told www.kentishfootball.co.uk today.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for both clubs to get some much needed exposure on national television, especially after all the problems we have had to endure over the last couple of years.

“What a buzz for both sets of players! I know one thing, hair gel sales at Boots will go through the roof with my lot and the most crowded area on the day will be the space in front of the mirror in our dressing room!”

Admission prices for the FA Cup tie against South Park, who will be bringing a coach load of players and supporters to the game, have been confirmed at £6 (adults), £3 (concessions) and £1 (children).

Despite finishing in fifth place in the Kent League last season, Greenwich Borough averaged home gates of just 31.

Fisher v Greenwich Borough

Safety Net Associates Kent League

Saturday 7th August 2010

Kick Off 3:00pm

At Champion Hill Stadium, Edgar Kail Way, Dog Kennel Hill, East Dulwich, London SE22 8BD