History-makers are ready to go!

Football's most famous piece of silverware will be at Footes Lane in the Channel Islands when the Ryman duo kick off at lunchtime in Saturday's Preliminary Round after being flown out by the Football Association to mark the tie's significance.

As always, the trophy was deemed to precious for the hold and afforded its own seat on the flight alongside the FA's officials and security. Fans can follow the action in the 1pm kick-off on the Ryman League's live scores vidiprinter as well tuning into live commentary on BBC Guernsey and Island FM, Guernsey's commercial station.

After flying out Friday night, Thamesmead chairman Paul Bowden-Brown said: “I feel very honoured to be involved in such a game. Last season we invited Jersey to fly over last season to play our team at the SCT on a very sunny Saturday afternoon. That was history in its own right because it was the first game that Jersey had played out of Jersey and here we are being involved with making history once again.

Thamesmead Town manager Tommy Warrilow said: “It really is a huge honour for every one of the players and officials to be involved in such a historic occasion – everyone who plays the game wants to play in the FA Cup and for us to have pulled what is probably the plumb tie of the round is great!”

Guernsey keeper Chris Tardif is looking forward to being part of FA Cup history this weekend after the 36-year-old made his professional debut in the competition for Portsmouth back in 2001.

He told the BBC: "It's a full circle for me, starting in the FA Cup as a professional to coming back here playing for my island in that competition - it's fantastic.

"For my son and daughter, we were fortunate enough to go to the final at Wembley last year, I don't think they still quite comprehend the trophy from the final is coming to Guernsey.

"I think they're a little confused and that we should be playing Manchester United on Saturday. I said 'give us a couple more rounds and we'll be there!'"

To listen live visit www.islandfm.com or www.bbc.co.uk/radioguernsey

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