WHILE he appreciates that it is likely to be a big test for his side, Witham Town manager Marc Benterman is relishing the chance for players to test themselves tonight against a team who he considers to be the best in this year's BetVictor Isthmian League division north.

Witham welcome Maldon & Tiptree to the Simarco Stadium for an Essex Senior Cup fourth round tie with a place in the quarter-finals on offer for the winner.

Having been on an incredible unbeaten run at the start of the season, Maldon come into the game with the rather unusual sensation of having lost their last two games.

However, they were both against higher-league opposition - against Enfield Town in the FA Trophy and then Newport County of League Two in the FA Cup's second round on Friday night - and Benterman knows that erodes none of the quality or presence that the Jammers will have.

They beat Witham 5-0 when the two clashed in Isthmian League division north in August and Maldon are still undefeated in the league and Benterman appreciates that it will be a test for his team tonight, but he also knows they have to rise to challenges like this to progress themselves.

“Maldon are a phenomenal force," said Benterman.

“I think anyone who watched the game when they played Newport County on Friday could see the quality they have.

“I really hope they can go on and win the league because they are the best side I’ve seen in this league this year.

“But we want to put ourselves in the mix in the top ten and you only improve by pitting yourself against these top clubs.

“I’d like to think they may rest one or two after the FA Cup game but I’m sure they will have their own agenda.

“What is on offer for us is a place in the quarter-finals of the Essex Senior Cup and that would be something the club haven’t done for a while if we can get through."

Witham come into the Essex Senior Cup tie on the back of two unbeaten league appearances away from home, having drawn at AFC Sudbury and then beaten Soham Town Rangers 2-1 last weekend.