LOOKING AHEAD: Basildon United will be determined to get the march on Aveley when they face their neighbours under the lights tonight.

The Bees make the short trip to Thurrock for the first time on consecutive Fridays, with the first encounter in the FA Trophy.

Marc Harrison’s team are flying high in the Isthmian North and remain unbeaten after nine matches following promotion.

Their only defeats this term have been in cup competitions and the Bees will not want another early exit following reverses in the FA Cup, Isthmian League Cup and Essex Senior Cup.

The Millers were also well beaten this week, with Cheshunt crushing them 4-0 at Parkside.

MANAGER’S VIEW: “Aveley are favourites as they have it at their place and it is nice to be the underdogs again,” said Harrison.

“I have a few lads unavailable because of the game being on a Friday but I have no problem with it being then. It could be a good crowd and it gives people a chance to watch some games on Friday as well.

“We play Aveley next Friday too so let’s hope for two positive results. In terms of the squad we have to manage what we have got. We are not taking cup competitions lightly but we have to be intelligent with our selection. The league is our main concern.”

TEAM NEWS: Reece Placid, Fahad Nyanja, Reside Sebastiao and Ruben Asamoah are unavailable.