FA TROPHY CLASH SET FOR CHATHAM AS SOUTHEND VISITS

CHATHAM, England (Interstat) — Non-league Chatham Town faces its toughest test of the season Saturday when it hosts professional side Southend United in the FA Trophy at Bauvill Stadium.

The matchup, scheduled for Jan. 31, 2026, pits a high-flying club from the eighth-tier Isthmian League against a National League outfit two divisions above. It represents a classic cup challenge for the home side.

Southend United enters in formidable form. The Shrimpers are riding a wave of momentum following a 3-1 away victory at Bath City on Jan. 13, 2026. That result extended a run of dominant performances, including a 4-0 home win over Truro City on Dec. 13, 2025. The professional side’s recent attacking prowess makes them a heavy favorite on paper.

Chatham Town, known as the Chats, will rely on home pitch advantage and their own impressive cup pedigree. Their most recent result, a 3-0 home win over Plymouth Parkway on Dec. 13, 2025, showcased their capability. Their season has featured several strong victories, including a 4-0 away win at Marlow in August and a 3-0 triumph at Ashford United in September. However, a 2-1 loss to Buxton in November demonstrated the challenges they can face against elite non-league opposition.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, Southend’s quality is projected to tell, with a predicted final score of 3-0 in favor of the visitors.

The fixture is a monumental occasion for Chatham, overshadowing even their following league game at Aveley scheduled for Feb. 1, 2026. Club officials anticipate a record crowd at the Bauvill, with fans hoping for a historic giant-killing.

For Southend, the match is a chance to advance in a competition they will be targeting for a deep run, while avoiding a costly and embarrassing upset.

Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. local time. The winner will advance to the next round of the historic knockout competition, which features clubs from across England’s non-league and lower professional pyramid.