HULLBRIDGE Sports manager Rob Hodgson says he cannot wait to take on Grays Athletic in the FA Cup, and says he believes his side can cause an upset.

Sports were drawn against the Ryman Premier League leaders yesterday in the second qualifying round of the competition, having reached the stage for the first time in their history following their 1-0 win over Basildon United on Saturday.

The Essex Senior League side have already upset the odds to beat Maldon & Tiptree in the competition this season, but face a tough ask against a Grays side who romped to a 5-0 win at the weekend.

But Hodgson, who is enjoying a promising start as manager after taking the job over the summer, says he and his players were prepared for a tough draw.

“It is a cracking draw and everyone is excited about it,” said the 25-year-old. “It is away from home so that will be a bit different but it is a challenge we are excited about and I don’t see any reason why we can’t go there and surprise some people.

“We knew we were going to get a tough team as the majority of the sides left play at a higher level than the Essex Senior League. But we have beaten Maldon & Tiptree when we weren’t expected to but we believe we can go there and do something.”

Sports have already beaten Grays this year, as they came out 2-1 victors in their first match of pre-season.

And Hodgson says his players will try and use that result as a springboard to build from, after a Joe Turpin goal proved enough to see them past Basildon.

“It would be great to secure a repeat win,” he laughed. “We played well that day and obviously both sides needed a run out and had trialists on show but we can take some heart from it.

“I have had a really encouraging start. Aaron (Hunwicks – first team coach) and I are still learning but I appreciate being given the opportunity and am pleased I can repay their faith.”

Sports visit Burnham Ramblers in the Essex Senior League tonight and could climb to fourth with a win.

Elsewhere, Southend Manor host Clapton at Southchurch Park.

In the FA Cup, Concord Rangers enter the competition and will visit Wingate & Finchley of the Ryman Premier League in the second qualifying round.