BRANTHAM Athletic joint-boss Michael Brothers says he and his team-mates must grab the chance to create club history.

The Blue Imps are in FA Cup first qualifying round action at home to Spalding United on Saturday (kick-off 3pm).

If they win, it will be the furthest the club have ever gone in the world-famous competition, having previously reached this stage in 2013-14 and 2015-16.

Brantham will also have prize money in their thoughts because, if they win, they will pocket a cool £6,000.

They have already received £2,250 and £2,890 for their extra preliminary round and preliminary round victories, in addition to earning a further £550 for winning last weekend’s FA Vase first qualifying round tie at Stansted.

“It’s fantastic for us all, as players and management, but more than anything it’s just brilliant for the club,” said Brothers, who runs the side with Matt Carmichael.

“Brantham have never been past this stage before so there’s a chance we could make a bit of history on Saturday.

“That would be amazing and it’s not often you get an opportunity like that.

“These boys can write their names in the record books and you don’t know if or when the club will ever go further in the cup.

“It’s a great incentive and everyone’s so excited.

“There’s a buzz around the place and we feel confident, because of the run we’ve been on.

“Spalding (Northern Premier League division one south) play at a higher level than us, though, so we know how tough it’s going to be.

“We’ll have to be at our best but there’s so much at stake and the prize money is massive.

“It’s a crazy amount for a club like ours and would make all the difference.”

Brothers hopes the community turn out and get behind his side.

“There are so many positive things going on but the one thing we’d like to improve is our support,” he added.

“Those that come and watch us every week are fantastic but it would certainly be great to get a few more through the gate.

“The boys deserve it because of the run they’ve been on.”

Brantham are still unbeaten after three Thurlow Nunn League premier division matches and are still going strong in the Vase, as well as the FA Cup, after winning 3-1 at Stansted.

“We haven’t been at our best in the last two or three games but we’ve dug in and been superb defensively,” said Brothers.

“Luke Avenell, in particular, has been one of our best signings.

“He’s a very good goalkeeper but also great in the changing room.

“He’s confident and assured and that rubs off on everyone.”

Brantham now entertain Takeley in the second qualifying round of the Vase, on September 15.

If they win, they will pocket another £725.