JAMES Blanchfield feels Concord Rangers’ special fighting spirit has driven them on to Monday’s FA Trophy final at Wembley.

The National League South side have upset the odds to take on Harrogate Town at the world famous home of English football.

And Blanchfield believes it is the Beach Boys’ togetherness which has made it possible “I’ve been here for two seasons now and I love it,” said the 23-year-old.

“There’s something different about Concord and it’s a real family club.

“Everyone is best mates with everyone and gets on really well.

“That’s what helps us and it definitely helped us in this run to Wembley.

“I had a year at Dagenham before coming here which didn’t really work out but since being at Concord I’ve fallen back in love with football again.

“I really enjoy it.”

Concord will be massive underdogs for Monday’s match as they take on Town side currently 17th in League Two.

But that tag is something Concord have long been used to.

“We’ve been seen as underdogs all the way through this cup run and even the teams we played from a lower level were probably bigger clubs than us,” said Blanchfield, who lives in Hockley.

“We go into most games as underdogs really so we’re used to that.”

Concord will now be aiming to secure another upset and have been working hard to prepare for the clash, having not played a competitive fixture since February.

“We’ve had a few friendlies and we’ve done well in them too,” said Blanchfield.

“We’ve had an intense training camp and we’re ready.

“Harrogate have been playing week in, week out so it’s not the same but it’s the best we could do.”

And Blanchfield is relieved the final, which was originally due to be played last March, is finally going ahead, albeit with no crowd.

“There was a point we never thought this would happen and before the semi-final I don’t think we thought that was ever going to happen either, said Blanchfield.

“For it to be going ahead is a massive relief and we’re buzzing for it now.”

"Of course it’s disappointing that fans can’t come and I’d love to have my dad there but it got to the point where we hang on to try and get fans in then it’s likely not to happen at all.

"But this is where everyone wants to play and it’s a massive achievement for all of us.

"It’s a dream come true."