Match Preview

City take a 1-0 first leg lead to Southend-on-Sea this Saturday when they face Great Wakering Rovers in the second leg of the FA Vase Semi Final, with the team 90 minutes away from the Wembley showpiece Final and the club's first ever visit to the famous arch.

In what is proving to be arguably the club's biggest week in the 122 year history, City know that a positive result, be that a win or a draw, will seal their spot at Wembley and the club's first ever Wembley appearance. Elliott Hartley's second half strike in last Saturday's win at Sixways is what currently separates the sides at half-time in the contest.

Chris Cornes' side will be full of confidence after securing the club's twenty-fourth consecutive win in all competitions on Tuesday night and the Hellenic League Premier title in the process, the first league championship in 45 years. Although not at their free flowing best, the Thursday evening postponement of the Hereford Lads Club fixture will give the team the opportunity to rest, ahead of Friday's coach trip before the big game on Saturday.

Calvin Dinsley returned to the side on Tuesday which will give the team a huge boost on Saturday. Many felt that his presence in the middle of midfield was missed on Saturday, but he managed over an hour on a tough Thornbury surface, which should be excellent preparation heading into this tie. Adam Mace was a second half withdrawal after taking a knock in the first half, but it is expected that he will be back.

Liam Lockett though was absent for Tuesday's title celebrations, and you feel will be desperate to be back fit in time for the weekend, after taking a knock after a late and heavy challenge in the first leg.

Dylan Hart returned to the starting eleven on Tuesday, looking lively with a number of close efforts on goal, and may be utilised after causing the Rovers defenders problems when introduced during the first leg. Jamie Insall also returned with a twenty minute cameo on Tuesday, and will likely be pushing for minutes in this one.

Our opponents continued their preparation for the fixture by beating Hullbridge Sports FC 4-1 on Tuesday evening.

This fixture at Great Wakering Rovers is an ALL TICKET MATCH. No tickets will be available on the day and City supporters with no match ticket SHOULD NOT TRAVEL. Great Wakering play at Burroughs Park, Little Wakering Hall Lane, Great Wakering, Essex, SS3 0HQ.