NEW Basildon United head coach Glen Kendall is eager to round off his first week in charge by guiding the Bees into the third qualifying round of the FA Trophy for the first time in the club’s history.

Kendall was named as John Sussex’s successor in midweek after the former boss decided to resign following the 3-2 Isthmian North defeat to Cambridge City.

And, having overseen proceedings as Basildon beat Aveley in an Isthmian League Cup clash on Tuesday, Kendall is keen to cause an upset when Hornchurch make the short trip to the Cousins Car Wash Stadium tomorrow.

“It’s a big game and they are a very good side,” said Kendall, who took over as head coach after resigning as the chief of Essex Senior League outfit Clapton.

“But it’s nice for us to go into it having won in midweek.

“Having a new head coach normally gives the players a new sense of belief and I’m hoping that will be the case now that I’m in charge.

“Results haven’t been great in the league but it is now a fresh start for everybody.

“Everyone can have confidence and, although it will take time for me to get my blueprint across to the players, we will be looking to cause an upset and reach the third qualifying round.”

Kendall, who played in six different countries during an injury-plagued career before hanging up his boots at the age of 28, will be looking to guide Basildon away from the Isthmian North drop zone having taken over with his new employers only above bottom side Romford on goal difference.

But Kendall will have to wait before points are on offer as the Bees are preparing to do battle with Hornchurch.

The Urchins are managed by Mark Stimson, who featured for the likes of Southend United and Canvey Island during his playing days.

And Stimson’s Hornchurch are flying in the Isthmian Premier League, with them being third in the standings.

Although the visitors will go into the clash as favourites to progress and deny Basildon a first ever place in the third qualifying round of the FA Trophy, the Bees will go into the tie following a morale-boosting 2-1 Isthmian League Cup victory over Aveley.

And Kendall believes the triumph will give the hosts confidence.

“I got a report on how Aveley would play and it gave me plenty of information,” added Kendall.

“It was great to get the win and it’s a case of starting as we mean to go on.

“Hopefully we will be able to cause an upset this weekend.”