After a disappointing week when Valley collected just one point from two league fixtures, it’s back to Emirates FA Cup action and a “Millers derby” against fellow “step 4” side Aveley in the 3rd Qualifying Round.
A Tuesday evening rush hour journey via the Dartford Bridge or Blackwall Tunnel isn’t the best preparation for such an important match, but the prize at stake will see one of “The Millers” outfits just 90 minutes away from a potential tie against EFL opposition.
For Cray Valley, it’s a trip into the unknown – this being the furthest the Club have come in the competition.
For Essex opponents Aveley, it’s a chance to reach the 4th Qualifying Round for the first time since 1984/85, when they lost at home to local rivals Dagenham.
Aveley adopted the nickname “The Millers” when they moved to their previous ground at Mill Field in 1952, before moving to their new home at Parkside in 2017.
They were last in action on Saturday when their Pitching In Isthmian League North Division fixture at Histon was abandoned at half time due to a downpour with Aveley leading 2-1.
Currently sitting in 10th position in the league table with 6 points from their 3 fixtures, this is the 4th away tie the Essex side have faced in this season’s competition – securing wins at Harpenden Town, Lowestoft Town and Brantham Athletic to reach this stage.
When last season was brought to an end, Aveley were leading the pack chasing runaway leaders Maldon and Tiptree, so ambitions will be high for another promotion push this season – as shown by their recent acquisition of Tonbridge Angels midfielder Harry Donovan.
Their attack will be lead by George Sykes who scored 17 goals last season, and is already leading the way in 2020/21 with 3.
Kick-off at The Artic Stadium is at 7.45pm
Admission £10, £5 for concessions 65+ and Under 18, Under 11’s FREE with an adult
Payment by card is preferable – If paying by cash, please have the correct change available.
Due to the high demand expected for this fixture, tickets are now available online.
Spectators are advised that you are now required to check in on each visit to The Artic Stadium, using the “NHS Covid-19” app – available from your app store.
From the app, scan the official “NHS QR code” at stadium entry points to complete your check.
Images courtesy of Dave Cumberbatch