FA CUP fever is set to engulf Whitchurch on Saturday as the Longmeadow-outfit take on Bemerton Heath in an extra preliminary tie.

’Church are back in a competition they have not graced in recent years and the Wessex League division one outfit are raring to go and take the scalp of their premier rivals.

Early leaders Bemerton crushed Alresford 5-1 on Monday night to maintain their 100 per cent league start and will face a Whitchurch side fresh from an opening day 2-0 victory over East Cowes.

Looking ahead to the cup tie, manager Jim Macey said: “We are really looking forward to the game and will give it a right go. It is going to be a tough game as they are a good physical side.

“We have had them watched and they had a scout at our game, but we have nothing to lose and we hope we have a big crowd to cheer us on.”

Whitchurch opened their league campaign with victory last Saturday as they scored twice in the final 10 minutes of the match.

After an inspired double change by boss Macey, Paul Coventry combined with Ashley Childs, who scored on the 80-minute mark.

Two minutes later, the lead was doubled as the visiting goalkeeper dropped the ball from a shot. Alex Dockree, following up, saw his first effort saved, but hammered home the rebound.

After that Nicky Jupp, on his debut, hit a shot which came back off the crossbar.

Earlier in the half, Dan McGee made an excellent save at the feet of one the East Cowes forwards, the only time he was really troubled in the match.

The opening 45 minutes had seen ’Church on top with Grant Powell having a left-footed shot saved and Brett Denham heading at the goalie.

Cowes continued to defend well as the sides went in at the break at 0-0, but two goals in the final 10 minutes secured a home win.

All three league debutants – Jupp, Dockree and left back Jack Peckham – impressed.

Macey said: “We could have won by more, but I was happy with a win and it was nice to keep a clean sheet as our back four of Jon Rimmer, Chris Smalley, Jack Peckham and Zac Reynolds dealt well with everything all afternoon.”