Sporting Bengal United manager Imrul Gazi is keen for his side to have a cup run to continue the momentum they’re building in the Essex Senior League.

Bengal will welcome Saffron Walden Town to the Mile End Stadium on Saturday in the newly-formed Peter Butcher Memorial Trophy for a first-round clash.

They had extended their unbeaten run to nine matches with a 4-1 win at Ilford on saturday before making it ten with a 1-0 win against St Margaretsburyin the second round of the Errington Challenge Cup on Wednesday night.

“It would be great if we could have a cup run this season, that is our aim, so let’s see how it goes,” said Gazi, whose side are keen to add a cup run to their recent successes.

After picking up 28 points from their first 14 league fixtures to put them fourth in the table, Gazi added: “I would have taken that. We have been on an incredible run of form since the loss away to Stansted at the end of September.

“We changed things up and have not really looked back since then.

“The players have all responded to what’s been asked of them and it’s all positive.”

Gazi also revealed he is not one bit surprised by his side’s run as he has always backed them to perform with their strongest 11 on the pitch.

“I’m not surprised with this run as I’ve always said if we can put out a consistent team, more often than not we will get results and that’s what is happening.

“Not to mention the fact we now have strength in depth in the squad with new additions that are really pushing for starting places.

“The additions of Jay Knight, Jason Ngandu, Declan Nche, Chris Greenslade, Ibrahim Ugradar have all been key and given me sleepless nights!”

Gazi praised the team spirit and is hoping it will continue.

“There is a good vibe around the dressing room at present and we are beginning to feel like a team.” he said.

“It’s great to have injured players coming back slowly and even those that are not ready turning up to support the lads as that means a lot.

“I always love to see the likes of Anthony Bruce-Murray and Freddy Tandon having banter in the changing room before and after the game, even though they’re both out injured as it says a lot about the team spirit we have.”