Hawks manager Paul Doswell is looking forward to dipping his sides toes back in FA Trophy action when a visit to Melbourne Park awaits tomorrow afternoon.
The Hawks will take on the Clarets for the second time this season, following a 0-0 draw at Westleigh Park in August, and expects a tough test against a side who’s form is improving.
Doswell is also pleased that he has morealess a full squad to pick from for tie which could see Havant and Waterlooville make the second round proper of the competition for the first time since 2015/16.
Talking about having a break from league action, Doswell said it’s a welcome break from the league.
“The trophy when you have good squad numbers around you can be a good game, but can often come when you’re struggling with numbers.
“Thankfully for us this Saturday I think for the first time almost this season we actually have a full compliment to choose from bar obviously Roarie.
“We haven’t played since last Saturday, we didn’t play midweek, so we’re all raring to go.”
Chelmsford have picked up form from late following a slow start to the season.
New signings with plenty of EFL experience, most notably Leroy Lita amongst other, has seen the Clarets bolster a team that will be a match for anyone in the Non-League game.
“I think Chelmsford were one of the favourites up there for winning the league let alone being in the play-offs.
“When you see the quality of players that Rod Stringer has signed they have a lot of league experience there.
“They’ve got new owners supporting Rod, and I know Rod well and I know he will get it right up there, but perhaps its taken a bit longer than he might have hoped.
“But, they have picked up the last few weeks and it wouldn’t surprise me whatsoever to see Chelmsford in and around the play-offs come the end of the season.”
Wednesday’s postponement against Slough, although frustrating, the gaffer feels it has given the chance for players to recover and give him a full squad at his disposal.
“It’s inadvertently helped us.
“It’s enabled Wes Fogden to get two good training sessions under his belt now, it’s allowed me to get Andy Drury back fit and certainly Benny Read’s had the benefit of a weeks extra training.
“Whilst we all want to play, the fact we were going to Billericay with 14 players, including the goalkeeper, and Slough Wednesday Night Wes would have been Wes would have maybe been on the bench and Andy Drury may have been on the bench.
“That extra two training sessions this week really enables them to get in contention for the starting XI.”