It’s the National League South’s turn to enter the FA Trophy as the Hawks face Welling United in the Second Round.The Hawks come off the back of a midweek 3-0 away win to Chippenham Town. It was a quick start as Muhammadu Faal’s chipped effort put the side in the lead. Two goals from James Roberts, with one from the spot, meant the Hawks cruised to victory with a clean sheet. Chippenham hardly tested House in net, forcing just a couple of savesfrom the loanee shotstopper. The goals from both wingers, who are forming quite the partnership, have notched 11 goals each in all competitions.In terms of team news, Josh Passley has been out for a week now with a sore hamstring, so tests will await to see if he returns. Sam Magri got his first 15 minutes in a Hawks shirt for over a year on Tuesday, so he could make a longer appearance.Our opposition, Welling United, will enter the tie after a 1-1 draw to Concord Rangers. Taylor Maloney’s opener was cancelled out by Ramsay’s 10 minutes later. The Wings will be without Sid Nelson after picking up a red card against the Beachboys for two bookings. With just one win in their last five matches, Welling will be looking to get their victory on home turf, and progress to round three. A familiar face, Stefan Payne, will be in contention for start – he is the side’s second highest scorer in the league with 5. Former Dart Ade Azeez is always a threat – he’s notched 8 goals.The last time the two sides met, it was earlier this season at Park View Road once again. Welling took the lead in the 27th minute, before an own goal from Sendles-White levelled the score. Maloney’s finish meant the Wings went into the break in the lead. Billy Clifford picked up a second yellow for a tactical foul, but it was the right decision in the end – the Hawks went up the other end of the pitch 10 minutes later and Prior knocked in a winner.It’s going to be a tough contest, with the winner taking a place in the third round. Last year, the Hawks were knocked out in this round to Slough Town on a cold afternoon at Arbour Park.
Written by Adam Nixon