CONCORD Rangers manager Adam Flanagan is expecting a reaction from East Thurrock United when the two meet in the Essex Senior Cup tonight.

The Beach Boys won the league fixture 3-2 at Rookery Hill on New Year’s Day.

And they remain on impressive form in the National League South as well, stretching their unbeaten league run to 13 games on Saturday against leaders Dartford.

Rocks were thumped 4-0 by Braintree Town at the weekend.

And Flanagan says he is not underestimating the threat of John Coventry’s team.

“The league game was a very competitive fixture and I expect tonight to be exactly the same,” said Flanagan. “In our first game East Thurrock were reduced to 10 men and our second goal had an element of good fortune so we know these two events are likely not to happen again and that for us to win we will have to deliver a disciplined performance against a dangerous East Thurrock team.

“After a defeat to Braintree at the weekend I know John will want a reaction from his players leading up to a big FA Trophy game so we expect a very strong team selection and for his players to show the high level of quality they have.”

Concord won the county cup three times between 2014 and 2016, while Rocks got to the final last season.

And both will be determined to reach the semi-final at Rookery Hill this evening.

“The most important thing is that we deliver a performance that reflects well on this team,” he said. “I am confident the players will deliver in what will be a very tough fixture.

“The players are aware of the importance of this cup competition and what it means to the club so they are hungry for success. East Thurrock missed out in the final last year and I am confident that they would like to go one better this year. It all bodes well for a fascinating game.”