JON UNDERWOOD is dreaming of another big day out in the FA Trophy as Slough Town prepare to welcome Wingate & Finchley to Arbour Park this Saturday (3pm).

The Rebels have overcome two tough ties against Bognor Regis and Merthyr to reach the third qualifying round, banking over £5,000 in the process.

Underwood admits that it will be tough to beat Ryman Premier club Wingate & Finchley - winners of four of their last six league matches - but has backed Slough to reach the first round proper this season.

“It’s a really important game on Saturday because if we win we’re into the first round proper and we like to be in big games,” Rebels’ joint-manager told the Observer.

“If we win it opens up the chance of getting someone like Woking or Aldershot to Arbour Park, and we would love that occasion.

“Wingate & Finchley are going well so it will be hard, but we’ve already had a tough route, and done well in the last two rounds.

“We’re at home so we’ve got to be confident.

“We’ve got a stretched squad with suspension and injuries but we’re still happy with the team, and I guess we will be seen as the favourites.

Slough Observer:

PHOTO: Striker Elijah Adebayo scored the winning goal in the 2-1 victory at Stratford Town on Tuesday. Slough Town have now extended his loan deal from Fulham until January 3.

“The last two results at Arbour Park, a defeat and a win, have not been what we wanted, but generally we’ve been very good and confident at home.”

The Rebels go into the tie on the back of a busy schedule after three matches in just five days including the 2-2 home draw with Kings Langley on Saturday, and a 2-1 win away at Stratford Town on Tuesday evening.

Underwood said: “Four points was probably fair because to win games you need to be clinical and take your chances.

“It’s not a bad return from two games but if you want to win the league, which we do, then you need six.”

However, as top of the table Leamington and second placed Chippenham both failed to win in midweek, Slough are now just four points off the lead with a game in hand.

“Other results in the league went our way so it was a great night. It puts us in a stronger position and gives the lads confidence and belief.”

The Rebels lost 1-0 at Northwood in the League Challenge Cup second round on Wednesday.