Although they have had a tough start to their Isthmian League Premier season, Cray Wanderers are enjoying F.A. Cup success and they entertain Hastings United in the third qualifying round on Saturday.

Neil Smith’s Wands have won just once in the league so far this season however, their opponents from Sussex are only just above them with two wins.

In the first qualifying round, Cray were held by Southern Counties East Football League club Larkfield and New Hythe before winning the replay eight-nil at Flamingo Park.

They then drew Wingate and Finchley at home and looked in charge when David Ijaha put them ahead with fifteen minutes remaining.

However, a penalty conceded and scored three minutes into stoppage time meant they again needed a replay. Another tight game took place and the clubs were only separated by David Smith’s first half injury time goal.

On Saturday they visited Bognor Regis Town in the league and lost three-one with only a late consolation goal by Kenny Coker to show for their efforts.

It has been a more straight forward cup campaign for Hastings. They started with a three-one home win against Redhill before hosting Harefield United who they beat one-nil. All four of their cup goals have been scored by Davide Rodari.

They had a local derby on Saturday and claimed a point at Lewes. Billy Vigar put the visitors ahead in the fourth minute but they were forced to settle for a draw when Danny Bassett scored with eight minutes remaining.

Last season Hastings visited the Wands in the league on New Year’s Day at Hayes Lane and a tight game ended in deadlock as neither side could find a way through their opponent’s defence.

Both teams know that there could be a great reward for the winners as National League sides come in at the next stage, and EFL One and Two teams in the following round.

Picture supplied by Ben Keyes.