Holders planning cup party

Supporters Direct Cup holders Enfield Town are looking forward to flying the flag for the Ryman League on Saturday when they defend their title against Belgium side YB SK Beveren.

YB SK Beveren – formed out of the ashes of UEFA Cup quarter finalists KSK Beveren - were already due to play in a friendly at the Ryman Premier club's Queen Elizabeth II Stadium. As a result of the European club's own fight for survival, Supporters Direct have upgraded the fixture to the 2013 Supporters Direct Cup.

Like Enfield, formed by supporters out of the now defunct Enfield FC, the Belgians became a fan-owned club and have just completed their second season in the Fourth Provincial League, gaining promotion in their play-off final. Town have just completed their first season in the Ryman Premier and second at their new Queen Elizabeth II Stadium, metres from Enfield’s old Southbury Road home.

Enfield had the honour of hosting the first ever Supporters Direct Cup, losing to AFC Wimbledon, but beat Wrexham 3-1 last summer to lift the trophy, pictured. Organisers say they are delighted with Supporters Direct's decision to add a European element this year and are planning to turn their cup defence into a party for fans with a range of activities and entertainment around Saturday's fixture.

Apart from attractions for younger supporters, they are also staging a mini beer festival with ales from the local Redemption and Red Squirrel Breweries among others on offer to sample throughout the day.

Enfield Town spokesman Ciaran Glennon said: "It should be a great day and Beveren have already confirmed several coach loads of supporters to boost the atmosphere. We are hoping to make a special occasion of the day and defend our title. Fans from across the league are invited to the party as we celebrate football and the great things that supporters can achieve when they work together."