BOSS Brendon King is hopeful Hamworthy United can be this season’s FA Cup surprise package.

The Sydenhams Wessex League outfit have progressed through two rounds of the competition with 4-1 victories over Bemerton Heath Harlequins and Ascot United, respectively.

Those wins earned the County Ground side a home clash against Hellenic Premier outfit Thatcham Town in the first qualifying round tomorrow (3pm).

Another victory would bank United a cool £3,000 in prize money and the Hammers manager fancies his side’s chances of extending their cup run.

King told the Daily Echo: “Everyone is really looking forward to it. There is a good buzz around the place.

“It’s a fantastic competition to be involved in, whether you are playing, managing or coaching. It’s great for the club to have come through the two rounds.

“There is always one team every season which pops up, has a nice little run and earns their club a bit of money. Why can’t it be Hamworthy United this year?

“The players should be really looking forward to it.

“I think with the money side of things, people involved further in the football club look at that more. We just want to try to win as many matches as we can.”

Despite being based in different regions, Hammers and Thatcham both play at Step Nine of English football’s pyramid.

The visitors are yet to concede a goal in the cup so far this season having beaten Wessex League Petersfield Town 5-0 and Alresford Town 2-0.

Quizzed on Thatcham, King replied: “We have had some highlights from their games which we have been watching.

“You can also make a phone call to a manager or two to try and get some information on them, which we did with Ascot.

“From both clubs’ perspectives, it’s a good draw.”

Defender Nathan Walker, who signed for Hammers from Dorchester Town in the summer, also insisted there was more to come from his new club.

He added: “If we are on our game, we will be a match for anyone.

“We went through two rounds of the cup and haven’t played well yet. We are not happy with our performances.”

Walker, who also previously captained United under ex-boss Phil Simkin, admitted he was enjoying his return to the County Ground.

“It’s good being back at the club,” he added.

“I always said I would finish my career there when I left, so to go back and help the youngsters out with Jamie Gleeson is good.

“I would like to avoid Dorchester (in the cup) if I’m honest but, if they get through, bring on Weymouth any day.

“There’s only one claret and blue and that’s Hamworthy.”