Andy Hessenthaler has welcomed their cup challenge Pic: Barry Goodwin

by Luke Cawdell

Gillingham boss Andy Hessenthaler feels the FA Cup has given his side the chance to show off their potential.

The Gills emerged victorious from their replay against League 1 Bournemouth on Tuesday night, and Hessenthaler believes the better teams are giving his side the chance to express themselves.

Hessenthaler's men competed well with Championship side Brighton in the Carling Cup earlier in the season and now travel to League 1 Leyton Orient in the FA Cup second round on December 3.

Hessenthaler said: "We have a squad of players who can step up to that level and it suits us. That’s why we are all trying to get out of this league because we know we can do well in that league.

"This league is tough to get out of but we deserved to win against Bournemouth.

"We look forward to going to Orient now. I have seen them a couple of times this season and know what to expect.

"The FA Cup is the best competition in the world. Dreams are made out there on the pitch.

"It would be nice to keep this momentum going, get a nice result against Bradford and then go to Orient full of confidence."

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