Just eighteen months on and it’s another trip down “Wembley way” for Kevin Watson’s Cray Valley boys in search of Club history.
This time it’s 5 miles from the famous “arch” – the venue, Earlsmead Stadium, home of Pitching In Southern League Premier South Division side Harrow Borough.
The prize – a place in the 3rd Qualifying Round of the Emirates FA Cup for the first time in the Club’s 100 year history.
By comparison. their hosts have reached the competition proper twice in the last 10 years – the most recent being in 2016/17 when a First Round visit to Northampton Town resulted in a 6-0 drubbing.
While The Millers can boast an as yet, unbeaten start to the season, Boro’s campaign has seen them beaten in their 3 league outings – the most recent being a 5-2 defeat at Met Police ln Tuesday when defender Chinua Cole was dismissed following a 56th minute fracas. A 70th minute penalty and last minute over-head kick from Marc Charles-Smith put a glimmer of light on an otherwise dismal performance.
A hitherto solid – before Tuesday – defence has been Boro’s early season strength, while FA Cup wins at Langney Wanderers (on pens after a 1-1 draw) and Beaconsfield Town (2-0) have seen Harrow through to this stage.
Darren Wilkinson’s men – who were languishing in 17th place when the 2019/20 was brought to a premature close – are sure to provide a stern test for The Millers, but hopes will be high for a victorious trip home to South London.
NEWS FOR VISITING FANS
Harrow Borough play at Earlsmead Stadium, Carlyon Avenue, South Harrow, HA2 8SS
For those travelling, please be aware that the journey by road can be a bit of a nightmare, particularly on a Saturday afternoon, so public transport could be an option.
The nearest station is Northolt Park – Chiltern Railways train from Marylebone, running at 05 and 46 minutes past the hour..
14 minute train journey then 10 minute walk to the ground (signposted).
Entry is available on the day, but advance tickets can be bought at https://harrowboroughfc.ktckts.com/brand/match-tickets
Adult £12
Concession £6
Under 16 £2
Image courtesy of Dave Cumberbatch