Stuart Wardley

STUART Wardley believes there could be a giant killing on the cards as the Bloods kick off their Carlsberg FA Vase campaign with a visit to his former club, Haverhill Rovers, this Saturday.

Walden are coming into the game on an impressive six game unbeaten streak, whereas their opponents, who are a division above, are yet to make an impression in the league – winning two of their five games.

The 36-year-old gives his team a “great chance” of progressing to the third round – they got a bye in the first round.

“They may have beaten Great Cornard 11-0 in the last round but in the league they are not doing so well. We’re on a roll, the club is buzzing and the boys have a head of steam so there could be a giant killing on the cards.”

Of course, the veteran defender knows a thing or two about how Pete Betts sets up his team having spent three years at the heart of his defence before teaming up with Colin Wallington and Nicky Smith to rejoin his home-town team and begin a new era at the club.

“I am really excited to play against them. They are a great bunch of lads and they try to play nice football but I think they will be surprised by us.

“I know how they play and their strengths so I’ll pass that information on to Colin and Nicky, but at the end of the day it’s a big game for both of us.

A good run in the FA Vase has financial benefits from a club like Saffron Walden so Wardley is keen for his team mates to put in a strong performance against Haverhill.

“The Vase is not quite the FA Cup but a good cup run has the potential to bring the club good revenue. We want to do well and show people that we’re back as a club, pushing in the right direction and building for the future.”