Sutton United start their FA Cup campaign tomorrow but boss Paul Doswell wishes they had pulled an easier draw out of the hat.
United travel to fellow Vanarama National South side Bishop’s Stortford in the second qualifying round, sitting just one place higher in the league thanks to a superior goal difference.
And Doswell admitted he would have preferred a tie against a lower league side.
“It’s a disappointing draw,” he said.
“You want a home draw and then you want a team that is not in your league at this stage of the competition.”
United are without the suspended Dean Beckwith, but Simon Downer is back from injury.
Ryman Division One South side Carshalton Athletic have strengthened the squad ahead of their FA cup encounter against Ryman Premier East Thurrock United.
Boss Matt Howard has brought in former Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Luke Colquhoun, while the capture of Billy Marshall bolsters his midfield options as they look to cause an upset.
Having overcome minnows Farnham Town in the previous round Tooting & Mitcham, will also be looking to cause an upset against National League North side Brackley Town.
The Terrors’ league form has been indifferent this season and they will need to be at their best to progress against a side two leagues above them in the Non-League pyramid.
Also in cup action are Kingstonian, who travel to Evo-Stick Southern Premier Division side Dunstable Town.
Ks needed a replay to get past Farnborough in the last round but are unbeaten in their past six games.
In league action, Hampton & Richmond take on Merstham at home in the Ryman League Premier division.
After Tuesday’s six goal thriller which ended in a 3-3 draw against promotion hopefuls Dulwich Hamlet, the Beavers will hope a win can push them into play-off contention.
In Ryman Division One South, Corinthian Casuals host rock-bottom Chipstead while Walton Casuals entertain high-flying Three Bridges.
In the Combined Counties Premier League, Sutton Common Rovers are away to Spelthorne Sports, Colliers Wood United go to Guildford City and Raynes Park Vale face a trip to Redhill.
Feature image of Paul Doswell courtesy of SUFCTV, via Youtube, with thanks
