MIKE Ford said it would be no surprise if Banbury United were to upset higher league opposition in Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup clash, writes MATTHEW BRUCE.

The Puritans travel to Vanarama National League South side Wealdstone in the third qualifying round.

Although the hosts occupy a place in the division above, Banbury manager Ford believes his side have the advantage in their first tie at this stage of the competition since 2005.

“It’s a fantastic tie for us,” he said.

“Their home record’s not great and there’s a bit of disquiet about their result at the weekend (a 2-1 defeat to Truro City), so they’re under huge pressure.

“They’re in the top ten in their league, so there is a gulf, but they won’t hold any fears for us.

“If we go there and win it won’t come as a surprise to me at all.

“In a one-off game I would fancy us against anyone from that level.”

The Puritans head into the tie on a high after a 3-0 win over Kings Langley in the Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division.

Goals from George Jeacock, Conor McDonagh and Ricky Johnson helped extend their unbeaten run to five in all competitions.