With no Emirates FA Cup game last Saturday, Felixstowe & Walton visit Bowers & Pitsea this weekend not having played for two weeks, writes Barry Grossmith.

East Anglian Daily Times: Felixstowe fans will be out in force at Bowers & Pitsea this weekend. Picture: STAN BASTONFelixstowe fans will be out in force at Bowers & Pitsea this weekend. Picture: STAN BASTON (Image: Archant)

The club travels south in confident mood, after picking up three points at home to a good Aveley side last time out.

Following that game, joint manager Kevin O’Donnell said: “To come away with three points and a clean sheet was hugely pleasing. Yes, we had to defend for long periods and Aveley had the lion’s share of possession.

“However, possession alone won’t win you a game; on the day our squad stood together, put their bodies on the line when needed and finished their chances when they came along, something Aveley failed to do.“

O’Donnell added later that the club is fully aware that this week’s opponents will be a difficult obstacle to overcome, saying: “Last season Bowers finished third in the league so we know this will be another tough encounter for us.

“However, following our fantastic performance against Aveley, we have shown we can match any team in this league.”

Bowers & Pitsea currently find themselves in fifth spot in the Bostik North with two wins and a draw under their belt, having yet to concede. But with Felixstowe in second spot, victory at The Len Salmon Stadium could see the Seasiders sitting top come Saturday night.

But let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves.

There will be added interest on Saturday as ex-West Ham defender Julian Dicks will officially open the new 3G pitch with Felixstowe & Walton being the first opponents to grace the new surface.

This move away from grass will offer no fear for Ian Watson and O’Donnell’s side, who like to pass and keep the ball on the ground.

With Felixstowe bringing along their loyal away support, this could be a fascinating and well-attended Bostik North encounter between two good sides, both enjoying early success in the current campaign.