TONY Burman has challenged his Dartford players to grasp the opportunity of playing in the first round proper of the FA Cup against Port Vale.

The Darts boss has enjoyed plenty of success since taking control and enjoyed two promotions but this is the first time he has been a manager at this stage of the world famous competition.

Burman knows the same can be said for the vast majority of his squad and is urging them to rise to the occasion against League Two promotion hopefuls Port Vale.

He told News Shopper: “This is another huge milestone for us and the reality is the chance to be involved in the first round doesn’t come around very often.

“It is up to us to make the most of it and grab the opportunity with both hands.

“I’m just pleased for a lot of people behind the scenes at the club who work ever so hard to have this game at home.

“There will be a huge crowd and it is the FA Cup, so anything can happen on the day.

“We are going to give it a right good go because this competition has a history of challenging the favourites.”

Burman has been swotting up on Port Vale ahead of the big game and is confident he knows what to expect come 3pm on Saturday.

He said: “I’ve spent the last five days finding out everything I can about them, so I know quite a lot already and will continue to find out more.

“They’ve got some quality players and they deserve to be in second place in position League Two because they are a very good side.

“Micky Adams is a top manager and we know it isn’t going to be easy but it is all about what happens on the day, that is the beauty of the FA Cup.”

Elliot Bradbrook is fit and available again after missing last Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Lewes with a hamstring injury.