THE MATCH: Having stormed to the top of Isthmian North, Canvey Island turn their attentions to the FA Trophy and Walton Casuals this weekend.

The Gulls are flying in the league but want a cup run this season, following early exits from the FA Cup and League Cup.

The last time Canvey competed in a preliminary round tie was in 2007, with the team reaching the first round that season.

Walton Casuals have enjoyed a positive start to the Isthmian South season and sit fifth after 11 matches.

They have also scored 25 goals in that spell, although the Gulls have 31 in the same amount of time.

THE INSIGHT: “It isn’t the best time to take a break from the league but it is what it is,” said Gulls chief Danny Heale.

“We want to crack on there but we want to do well in the cup competitions too, which we haven’t done so far.

“Walton Casuals play on a 3G pitch and are doing well in their league, so it is a case of heading into the unknown.

“I will speak to some managers from that league, but it will be tough.

“Over the last few seasons we have done well on artificial pitches and it is part and parcel of football nowadays so I won’t be accepting any excuses. When the surface is wet it suits you but it can slow up in the dry.

“I am old school where it is concerned.

“I haven’t played them in my role as manager, but we know Tony Gale is the chairman and their son (Anthony) is the manager.

“But we will be ready, for sure.”

THE TEAM NEWS: Jerrome Sobers misses out.