ISTHMIAN North leaders Basildon United will swap their league campaign for the FA Cup this weekend.

The Bees top the table having triumphed in their first three games of the campaign.

And Basildon’s Darren Esuka – who bagged the winner against Grays Athletic on Monday – wants to take that momentum into Saturday’s clash at home to  Biggleswade.

“I’m looking forward to Saturday because it’s the FA Cup and that’s where you really want to push yourself as a team to know how far you can get,” said Esuka.

“The FA Cup is extremely important to me because it’s my first time in it.

“I’ve always loved watching it, especially when non-league teams are the underdogs and go far enough to play a professional team because that’s always nice to see.”

Basildon will also head into the cup clash in a confident frame of mind.

And Esuka has loved every second of his first season with the Bees.

“It’s been great,” said Esuka.

“From the start I feel like the lads that we have gel together really well on and off the pitch that’s what made us strong so far.”

Basildon have certainly impressed on the pitch during their opening fixtures.

And Esuka was pleased to help continue the unbeaten start to the season with his winning goal on Monday.

“Monday’s win meant a lot,” said Esuka.

“The goal was a relief for the team too because it was quite a 50/50 game and that just shut them down.

“I’m happy to score, it means a lot to me and definitely for the club.”

But Esuka remains hungry for more.

“I just thank God for this opportunity to be here and all I can do is stay focused and work hard for the season ahead,” said Esuka.

“I know my capability and I know if I work hard enough I’ll get a lot of goals and wins for the team by God’s grace.

“It’s also good for the club and the players as well for exposure.”