Ex-Norwich defender Fleming joined Lowerstoft in 2008

Lowestoft coach Craig Fleming says his side can compete alongside any part-time outfit in cup competitions.

The Trawler Boys face Uxbridge in the FA Trophy first round, having beaten Chippenham and Needham Market.

Fleming told BBC Radio Norfolk: "The FA Trophy is the most important cup competition we're left in.

"We can put Lowestoft on the map. We are more than a match for anyone below full-time football, and we haven't played near our full potential yet."

Fleming, who made over 500 appearances in his playing career at Oldham and Norwich, added: "It's the biggest non-league competition, after the FA Cup, and it's a good money spinner.

"I think it means more to me now [than when I was a player]. If we win on Saturday, we'll be in last 32 and it's an incredible opportunity."

I think we are capable of playing in the Conference Premier Craig Fleming

Lowestoft lie 6th in the Ryman Premier Division, with four games in hand on the leaders Sutton United.

"Not to be too disparaging, but last year in Division One North, we turned up sometimes and even if we weren't at full tilt, we still won comfortably.

"In this league, you'll get found out. But there's a lot more to come from these players. If we get a full squad, we'll definitely be challenging for promotion."

And Fleming is confident that the club are not finished with their climb through the non-league pyramid, after back-to-back promotions through the Eastern Counties League Premier Division in 2008-09, and Division One North in 2009-10.

"I think we are capable of playing Conference Premier. That's the main aim, and as quickly as possible.

"We've got the players and the structure and I think we can compete."

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