BRAGGING rights and Essex Senior Cup progress will be up for grabs when STANWAY ROVERS renew acquaintances with BRIGHTLINGSEA REGENT tonight.

The north Essex neighbours are set to meet in a third-round showdown at the Hawthorns.

The pair are in different leagues now, following Regent’s promotion to Ryman One North.

However, given their close proximity, there is bound to be plenty of spice.

“We’re all ready for a exciting game against Brightlingsea,” said Stanway boss Angelo Harrop, who is still without Craig Hughes.

“It’s a tough week for us, with our FA Vase match to come at Hertford on Saturday.

“We’ll have to look at our squad, but we’re certainly very excited about both matches and would love to progress in both competitions.”

Rovers will assess the fitness of both Lee Cullen and Ray Turner.

The latter is doubtful because of a hamstring injury and is likely to have a fitness test before the game.

“I had to come off again at the weekend,” he said, following Saturday’s 4-2 success at home to Ipswich Wanderers.

“It’s disappointing but from a team persepctive, the spirit here is amazing at the moment.

“It’s one of the best I’ve ever known in my time in non-league football.

“Credit to the manager for putting together such a good squad.”

Brightlingsea could hand a debut to new signing Ollie Canfer.

The midfielder was set to join during the summer before his work commitments took him to Kent.

He has been playing for Ryman One South side Ramsgate.

However, after moving back to the area, he was quickly snapped up by Regent boss James Webster.

Brightlingsea may opt to rotate their squad, given that they too have a big game on Saturday.

Webster and his team have an FA Trophy appointment at Bedford Town.

Goalkeeper Andy Plummer may be rested, as he has a hamstring problem and was struggling with is kicking during Saturday’s draw against Barkingside.

Ben Newson and Jake Turner will both miss tonight’s game due to work commitments.

The teams will know who the winners face by the time tonight’s game kicks-off.

The fourth-round draw is taking place at 5.30pm, with Stanway assistant boss Danny Slatter and secretary Kevin Mather helping out at Essex FA headquarters in Chelmsford.