During the close season Ware were moved to the Southern League, so although we won’t meet in the league this year we’ve been drawn together in the Preliminary Round of the FA Trophy.

The FA Trophy was first contested in 1969, devised to give clubs below the Football League a realistic chance of reaching a Wembley final. Since then, Harlow’s best progression in the competition has been reaching the 2nd Round Proper, most recently as the 2002-03 season. Ware meanwhile have never progressed past the Qualifying Rounds.

Ware had an indifferent start to the season, taking time to adjust to their new league. They’ve now settled, and have returned four wins and two losses from their last six outings in all competitions. Of the two losses, one came against Ryman Division 1 North high-flyers AFC Sudbury in the FA Cup.

The Hawks meanwhile have also been on a good run, with four wins, a draw and a loss in the last six games, including two wins against Ware’s fellow Southern League sides Bedford Town and St Ives Town. A disappointing draw at home to Haringey in the last game will be sure to spur on the Hawks in this local derby.

Supporters are reminded that due to FA rules, consumption of alcohol in view of the pitch during FA Trophy matches is now allowed, so spectators with alcoholic drinks are asked to remain in the Supporters’ Bar.

Kick off is at 3:00pm, on Saturday 3rd October 2015.

Don’t forget, if you can’t make the game, you can follow goal and match updates on the Harlow Town FC Twitter and Facebook pages.