CORSHAM Centre will fly the flag for the Chippenham and District League this weekend when they tackle Ashton in the first round of the national FA Sunday Cup.

The Premier Division leaders, who last dropped a point in April 2003, will be hoping to reproduce their remarkable league form on the national stage.

It's the first time Centre have entered the competition after the club received encouragement from the Wilts FA.

Manager Pete Ralph says he can't wait for the opportunity to stamp Centre's name on the footballing map.

He said: "This is our European Cup. It's the ultimate scale and the ultimate test for Sunday football.

"I'm confident we will perform well and do justice to the Chippenham and District League. I hope we get a large crowd at the Southbank to cheer us on."

Ralph admits he knows little about opponents Ashton, from Bristol, but the Centre chief says that will not alter the way he prepares for Sunday's encounter.

"I have never adopted the philosophy of watching our opponents," he said.

"If you can't suss a team out in the opening five minutes of a game you're never going to. All I know about Ashton is that they were formed in 2000 and play in the Bristol and District Sunday League Premier Division.

"They could have several players who have signed on for Clevedon Town in their side and I wouldn't have a clue."

Ralph should have a full squad to choose from ahead of Sunday's kick-off, including Calne Town midfielder James Lye, who has been in excellent form so far this season.

But the manager says he will select the best team available to him, not necessarily the best individual players.

"I pick lads who will work hard for each other, not those who just demand the ball at their feet. We like to get the ball down and play football but our movement off the ball is also very good.

"I just want the lads to go out there and enjoy themselves. This competition will be a big challenge but it's one we're looking forward to."

Ralph revealed the reason for not entering the Sunday Cup in previous seasons was the inevitable fixture back-log a good run in the competition would create.

"We play 24 games in the Chippenham and District League. That could mean we still had six fixtures to play during May if we progressed in the national cup," he said.

"In the past I thought the lads were too young and would find it difficult to challenge on the local and national stage - but now I think they are ready."

Kick-off at the Southbank on Sunday is at 2pm.

Holt are also playing the cup. They entertain CB Hounslow Ltd, who play in Division One in the Hayes and District League at Melksham Town's ground (kick-off 2pm).