Chelmsford City v Colchester United
The FA Cup with Budweiser
First Round Proper
3pm, Saturday 3 November 2012
Melbourne Stadium, Chelmsford City FC
Winning clubs receive £18,000 from The FA's prize fund
Click here for fixtures
By James Harris

Conference South side Chelmsford City host League One outfit Colchester United in an Essex FA Cup derby at the Melbourne Stadium on Saturday and are promising a big-match atmosphere.

The stage is set for a competitive local battle for progress, although Chelmsford know they will have their work cut out to stay in the competition according to manager Glenn Pennyfather.

He said: "We’re looking forward to the game very much and it’s remarkable we’ve got ourselves into this position.

"We’ve had to endure away trips to less glamorous places in the past in this competition, but this year we have our reward of playing a tough team at our home ground and it should be a fantastic occasion.

"Some clubs can go 25 years without reaching these stages of The FA Cup, but we’re lucky enough to be regular participants."

Despite his excitement, Pennyfather admits it won't be easy to clinch a giant-killing victory, adding: "We’re massive underdogs. Colchester are in good form. I know the manager, Joe Dunne, and he’s done a fantastic job at the club.

"I’m under no illusion that we face a tough challenge, but it’s a funny old game - especially in The FA Cup and anything can happen.

"We’ll have to be on top of our game and have a little bit of luck to win."

Whatever the outcome, fans can expect a lively atmosphere, with tickets already nearly sold out, as well as a passionate performance on the pitch - as promised by Pennyfather.

"The players will give it their all," he explained. "The passion will be shown from all of them. This is the first game this season where we are not expected to win and that will be enough to motivate the players."