This coming Saturday sees three Essex Senior League teams competing in the 1^st Qualifying Round of the FA Cup.

Clapton, who last time out caused a shock by despatching Norwich United, now face an even sterner test as they host Bostik Premier outfit Needham Market. The Tons have not come out the blocks as far as the league campaign is concerned, but having caused an upset in the last round, makes this a potentially difficult game for the Marketmen. A Clapton win would make this one of their best FA Cup performances for many years.

FC Romania saw off Long Melford in the last round and now travel to Hadley. The Wolves have made a strong start to the season, although they did lose for the first time last Saturday at Redbridge. Hadley may have home advantage but Ion Vintila’s troops have won two away games in the FA Cup to get to this stage and a win would see them better the 2014/15 season when they reached the 2^nd Qualifying Round.

Takeley visit FC Romania’s landlords Cheshunt. The Ambers have not made a great start to the season, whereas Takeley currently lead the ESL with five wins from five games. It’s a potential banana skin for Cheshunt as Takeley are on a winning streak at the moment and go into the game full of confidence.

With Takeley and FC Romania on FA Cup business means that Basildon United can look to move to the top of the table provided they pick up maximum points from their game at home to Great Wakering Rovers. The visitors will have other ideas of course, as they sit third and a win would place them at the top.

Saturday 2^nd September

Emirates FA Cup 1^st Qualifying Round

Cheshunt v  Takeley

Clapton v  Needham Market

Hadley v  FC Romania

Premier Division

Basildon United   v  Great Wakering Rovers

Hullbridge Sports v  Barkingside

Ilford v  Stansted

Sawbridgeworth Town v  Waltham Forest

Sporting Bengal United v  Tower Hamlets

Wadham Lodge v  Enfield 1893

West Essex v Burnham Ramblers

Woodford Town (2017) v  Redbridge