Baffins ready for Poppies in the Vase'¦Â Deans expect pressure from Chertsey Town

Baffins Milton Rovers are back in the groove ahead of their match against Bournemouth Poppies in the FA Vase on Saturday (3pm).
Baffins Milton Rovers are in FA Vase action. Picture: Chris MoorhouseBaffins Milton Rovers are in FA Vase action. Picture: Chris Moorhouse
Baffins Milton Rovers are in FA Vase action. Picture: Chris Moorhouse

The team quickly got back on track in midweek with a win against Fareham Town.

That was after losing to Tadley.

Now manager Steve Leigh is hoping they can stay on the Wembley trail in the Vase by beating their Wessex League premier division rivals at home.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He said: '˜After our disappointing performance against Tadley I thought we gave a very professional display (against Fareham).

'˜We kept the ball well, controlled the tempo for long periods and did what we hadn't done in the previous game.

'˜It looked as though we had learned the necessary lessons and players had taken on board what was asked of them.'

Horndean are expecting to be put under pressure in their Vase tie at Chertsey Town.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Deans face the Combined Counties League side who have won all six of their home matches

Boss Michael Birmingham knows it is a hurdle his team must face if they are to show they are capable of doing well in the bigger competitions they compete in.

He said: '˜There is no doubt that this is a very tough game for us.

'˜But if you want to progress in any cup competition you have to beat the best teams at some stage.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

'˜Both teams are in good form and it should be one heck of a game.

'˜We put in a terrific performance to win 4-2 at AFC Portchester in midweek.

'˜I can't see it being a defensive affair.

'˜We will be going into it as massive underdogs but are determined to express ourselves and play our football.

'˜It will be a great achievement if on Monday we are still in the hat for the next round draw.'

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Birmingham is optimistic he will have striker Zac Glasspool back in contention after injury.

AFC Portchester are keen to end a two-game losing streak in the Wessex League premier division as they entertain Bemerton Heath Harlequins at the Crest Finance Stadium on Saturday (3pm).

Fareham Town make the long trip to Shaftesbury on Saturday without a win in their past five games.

United Services Portsmouth can move into the top four in Wessex League division one by beating New Milton Town at the Victory Stadium on Saturday (3pm).

Petersfield Town visit Whitchurch United on Saturday (3pm).