Ray: “Embrace and savour it”

A capacity crowd of around 4,000 is expected to cheer on the U’s as they host Harrogate Town in an FA Cup second round replay being televised live on ESPN.

United player-manager Ray said: “They should embrace it and savour it. The ground’s going to be absolutely full and the atmosphere’s going to be electric. What a great night it’s going to be for the club, the players and the town.”

It’s the biggest game in the 118-year history of the present day Hastings United and a third round trip to Championship high-flyers Middlesbrough is the very appealing prize for the winners.

Ryman League Premier Division outfit United came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw away to Harrogate, who play their football one level further up the non-league pyramid in Blue Square Bet North, in the original meeting on Saturday December 1.

Jamie Crellin scored United’s second half equaliser in North Yorkshire, but is suspended tonight having picked up five bookings. Harrogate captain Alan White is also banned for the return.

Kick-off at The Pilot Field is 7.45pm and if you haven’t got a ticket, follow @SimonNewstead on Twitter for all the action as it unfolds and visit www.hastingsobserver.co.uk for updates throughout the evening.