BASILDON United boss John Sussex is relishing a trip to neighbours Billericay Town in the second qualifying round of the FA Cup.

The Bees are set to visit the Steel Team Stadium after being paired with Harry Wheeler’s National League South outfit when the draw was made at Wembley Stadium yesterday.

And Sussex believes the encounter will be among the biggest in Basildon’s history.

Sussex said: “It’s probably the tie the club wanted most.

“As a manager, I would have preferred a home tie against someone in our league because then we would go into the game feeling confident about progressing.

“But it’s a massive tie and it will probably be one of the biggest games in the club’s history.

“They are in the National League South’s top four and so close to reaching the top tier of non-league football.

“It will be a local derby and I would expect there to be a big crowd as well.

“The supporters and players are loving the thought of going to Billericay. It’s the magic of the FA Cup.”

Basildon booked their place in the second qualifying round of the competition after recording a 2-1 win over Isthmian North rivals Coggeshall Town.

Although Ugo Udoji put Coggeshall in front, goals from Adam Vyse and Joe Paxman ensured the Bees would come out on top at the Cousins Car Wash Stadium.

As a result, Paxman could now face brother Jack, who is on Billericay’s books, at the Steel Team Stadium.

And Sussex cannot wait for the contest.

“We already can’t wait for the game and are relishing the challenge,” added Sussex.

“It’s games like this that we are in football for.

“The draw is a great reward for the players after beating Coggeshall.”