CONCORD manager Danny Cowley admits it will have to be a good night for them and an off night for Chelmsford if they are to progress into the last four of the county cup from their Essex derby clash at the Aspect Arena tonight (kick-off 7.45pm).

The Beachboys are flying high in the Ryman Premier, but Cowley admits it will be a tough test against a visiting Clarets side who are once again pushing for promotion for the Conference South.

Cowley said: “It’s good that we’re in January and we’re still challenging on three fronts.

“We want to go through here, of course, but it will test our small squad.

“This will be our third game in six days and we’re taking on Chelmsford, who are a massive side, so we will have to be at our best and they will probably have to have a bit of an off day.”

Cowley said he’s looking forward to going head-to-head with Chelmsford manager Glenn Pennyfather, someone he speaks to regularly for advice and about players.

Tonight’s game could see Concord come up against Chelmsford winger Anthony Cook, who had a brief spell with the Beachboys after leaving Dagenham & Redbridge.

Concord moved up to third in the Ryman Premier with a terrific 2-1 win over Margate on Saturday with goals from Nicky Cowley and Steve King.

Chelmsford, who are sixth in the Conference South, lost 2-1 at Maidenhead United. They had taken a 14th minute lead through Jamie Slabber, but a brace from Alex Wall – the second a 92nd minute free-kick – completed a comeback win for the hosts.

Canvey Island are also in action tonight as they go to Hendon in the Ryman Premier. The Gulls will look to bounce back from Saturday’s galling 5-4 defeat at Whitehawk.