Bridgwater United head into the unknown on Saturday when they travel to the Hants FA ground at Winklebury to take on Basingstoke Town in the first qualifying round of the FA Cup writes Kerry Miller.

Basingstoke Town v Bridgwater United
Saturday 4th September, 3pm
The Emirates FA Cup, First Round Qualifying
Winklebury Football Complex

Town have been forced to play there following their eviction from their ground at the Camrose by the owner and former club chairman after a spell sharing Winchester City FC’s home ground.

They are now plying their trade in the Isthmian League which is a step above United and last Monday while the Robins were losing at Street, ‘Stoke’ were edging a thriller at Thatcham Town despite conceding two second half penalties.

Dave Pearse and Karl Baggaley will be looking for some consistency after the last two league games where their side played Saltash United off the park before succumbing to Street at the Tannery.

There are still injury problems through the squad and that is exacerbated by the suspension of new Robins centurion Jack Taylor, following the controversial FA Cup encounter at Brixham last month. He misses the FA Cup tie but will be eligible for any replay, or if there is a result against Basingstoke, then the important league game on Tuesday night when Ilfracombe visit once more for a Western League encounter.

Admission
Adult: £10
Concession: £7
Children (13-17): £3
Junior: £1

Parking
Spectator parking is behind Loddon Vale Bowling Club on Leisure Park Road (RG22 6PG) & the safest route is about a ten minute walk (if you follow the paths).