Not one but two teams will be representing Gillingham FC this weekend
The FA Cup is one of the oldest and most prestigious domestic cup competitions in the world and this weekend, not one but two teams will be representing Gillingham Football Club in the competition.
It’s an FA Cup double header as Justin Edinburgh’s side prepare for a trip to Stevenage Town on Saturday whilst Gillingham Ladies welcome Herne Bay Ladies to Chatham Town FC the following afternoon.
Edinburgh will come up against former team-mate Teddy Sheringham as the Gills continue their journeys on the road and it is a clash he is relishing.
“We’re hurting after Saturday’s defeat and the manner of it so I am expecting a response from the players. The FA Cup is a different proposition, in terms of being favourites so expectation is still upon us."
“We have had 16 games in eight weeks, so it’s been pretty hectic. It’s a competition that excites people up and down the country. The first qualifiers probably started back in August and some of the Premier League players probably don’t even know there are qualifying rounds!”
“It’s a special occasion, it’s special for fans; there’s always upsets and surprise so I think the anticipation of the FA Cup gives an added buzz for the players in the build up to the game.”
“We always respect the opposition, they will probably be hurting from the weekend like us but we will be going there to put on a performance and go through to the next round.”
Gillingham Ladies have already played in the FA Cup this season enjoying a resounding 9-0 victory against AFC Wimbledon to set up Sunday’s local derby. It’s a match Manager Jack Wheeler believes could draw a big crowd.
“The FA Cup is a very special competition, it’s fitting both us and the men’s team have fixtures this weekend and I’m positive both teams can pull off what is required to make it an enjoyable weekend all round.”
“We’re aware we have the title of favourites but we take each game as it comes and the team will be fully focused on putting on a good display and using the occasion to showcase what we’re about as a team.“
“It would be brilliant to get lots of Gills fans down to Chatham Town on Sunday to make it a double header. The support has been really vocal and I know it benefits the players. Herne Bay will bring a good crowd no doubt, so it is sure to be a really good atmosphere fitting for the occasion.”
Gills fans can purchase tickets for Saturday’s FA Cup tie by clicking here.
Fans who’d like to make it a double header by supporting Gillingham Ladies can buy tickets on the gate at Chatham Town FC. Tickets are priced £3 for adults and free for Under 16s. Kick off 2pm.