Bridport host Badshot lea in FA Vase qualifying round

Bridport in action against Folland Sports in the previous round of the FA VAse in August <i>(Image: Stephen Barrett)</i>
Bridport in action against Folland Sports in the previous round of the FA VAse in August (Image: Stephen Barrett)
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Bridport will aim to make home advantage count when they take on Badshot Lea in the FA Vase at St Mary’s Field on Saturday.

The Bees face a demanding test against opponents from a division above.

But manager Chris Herbst is targeting a place in the next round of the national competition.

Badshot Lea, who play in the Combined Counties League Premier Division South, arrive in Dorset following a busy start to the season.

They held AFC Stoneham 3-3 away from home in the FA Cup back in AUgust before losing the replay 2-0.

In the FA Vase, they defeated Alton 2-1 away from home in the previous round.

Bridport, meanwhile, go into the game following a 3-1 comeback victory over Newton Abbot Spurs.

The result lifted the Bees to fourth in the South West Peninsula League and made it back-to-back wins for the west Dorset club, putting behind them a run of two defeats and a draw at the end of August.

In the last round Bridport also overcame higher opposition in Wessex Premier League side Folland Sports.

Herbst said: “Looking ahead to Saturday, we want to progress in the FA Vase. It’s a huge game for us against a side who are a league above.

“We’ll be going as strong as possible. I want Bridport to be in the hat for the first round.”

The manager’s comments underline the importance Bridport are placing on the competition. And a strong start will be vital against a Badshot Lea side accustomed to operating at a higher level.

Bridport will hope their supporters can help create an atmosphere at St Mary’s Field as they look to claim a notable cup victory.

The winners will move into the first round proper of the FA Vase.

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