by Andrew Gidley

Ebbsfleet embark on a journey into the unknown on Saturday when they travel to Needham Market in the third qualifying round of the FA Cup.

The Suffolk villagers, based nine miles from Ipswich, are top of Ryman League Division 1 North, having lost just once in seven games so far this season.

They were promoted as Ridgeon Eastern Counties League Premier Division champions last season and Fleet boss Liam Daish (pictured) aimed to find out more about them by watching their Championship Manager Cup tie at Waltham Abbey on Tuesday night.

He said: "I have been looking at their results so far this season and they will be a team who are full of confidence. They know what winning is all about and it’s a good habit."

Daish is urging his players to enjoy the occasion, adding: "They should be looking forward to it, enjoy the pressure of the FA Cup and playing sport on a Saturday afternoon, instead of shopping or doing something else."

Needham Market beat Ryman League Division 1 South Chipstead 2-0 in a replay last week – on the same night Fleet were knocking out Cray Wanderers – and have beaten Kempston Rovers 6-1 and Daventry 3-2 in the two previous rounds.

Fleet, having started their campaign two rounds earlier than in previous seasons following relegation, will eye the £7,500 prize money as a good incentive to go further in the competition, after the early exit at Bromley last season.

They reached the first round two years ago, losing 1-0 at Crewe but only Craig Stone and Ricky Shakes survive from the team on duty that day.

Any replay will be at Stonebridge Road on Tuesday, with the fourth qualifying round draw due to be made the previous day.

Do you think Fleet can venture into the unknown and win? Have your say below.