There are no limits for Brantham Athletic this season according to new goalkeeper Joe Fowler, who has set his sights beyond Saturday’s FA Cup clash with Hertfordshire side Codicote.
Fowler only joined the Suffolk club this summer, but the 20-year old already has a good feeling about the upcoming campaign.
Brantham Athletic v Codicote
The FA Cup
Extra Preliminary Round
2pm, Saturday 16 August 2014
Brantham Playing Field
Winners receive £1500
Brantham’s No.1 is taking nothing for granted, however, and knows that despite playing in a higher league than their opposition, they will need to be at their best to progress.
"We have got together a really good, young squad this year," he said.
"We are all really excited for the season and want to be successful in all competitions.
"I am confident that we will win every game we go into. Nothing is certain in football, but I’m sure if we perform how I know we can then we will progress."
Brantham’s man between the sticks also revealed his delight at being able to play in one of the country’s finest club competitions.
The semi-professional teams around the country start six rounds away from the Football League sides, but Fowler admits the atmosphere, even at these early stages, remains a surreal experience.
"It’s the best experience you will have as a semi-pro footballer," added the former FC Clacton shot stopper. "The big crowds that seem to watch FA Cup games generate an atmosphere different to league games, it’s a different type of buzz."
Fowler is thankful to have two former professionals in charge at the club, and accepted the prior playing experiences of manager Paul Abrahams and first-team coach Steve Downey could help Brantham go further than the First Round Qualifying, the stage they reached last season.
"Both have invaluable experience in every aspect," he revealed.
"So yes, I would expect them to know how to treat each game and help us come out on top against Codicote, and go even further than last year."
