Fenn expects tough test against Bowers

Ilford are hoping for some FA Cup magic in the extra preliminary round this weekend against Essex Senior League rivals Bowers, who manager Allan Fenn describes as “one of the best in the country at this level”.

Bowers have been widely tipped to win the title this season, but Fenn believes his tactics will be enough to overcome his opponents on Saturday.

“We’ve got a very difficult task getting a result on Saturday, but we’ll go there with a game-plan and an idea how to win the game, so we’re looking forward to it.

“I watched Bowers on Tuesday when they beat Burnham Ramblers 3-1 and they’re a very strong and organised outfit. They will be up there challenging for the league.”

Ilford opened their campaign with a 2-2 derby draw at Barking, but gave a performance Fenn called “poor and abject”.

The Foxes took a first-minute lead through Carl Mullings, with debutant Glen Warwick producing a stunning strike to ensure a point.

“Initially the first feeling I had was relief,” added Fenn. “I’m pleased because we managed to get a draw, but it was an undeserved draw in my opinion.

“We were fortunate with our luck, but one thing I was really happy about was the character the lads showed because we weren’t at the races at all.

“It frustrates me to know that if played as well as we could then we could have won that game. But in saying that, it’s a fantastic point at Barking at any stage of the season.”

Ilford beat London Bari 1-0 in midweek but their attention is now firmly on trying to progress in the FA Cup, a competition that has been unkind towards the Foxes in recent years.

There is £1,500 prize money on offer at this stage, with the winners facing Clapton or Stanway in the preliminary round on August 29.

Fenn added: “Before I took over last season we hadn’t won a cup game in a very long time and that’s something that we’re looking to rectify this season for sure.

“Everyone loves a run in the FA Cup, it’s the cup of all cups. If we can get a run in that it would be absolutely fantastic with the finances it will bring into the club, but also the confidence.”