Wanstead & Snaresbrook captain Joe Ellis-Grewal believes the club’s experienced players could prove the difference in Sunday’s National Cup final showdown with Ormskirk.

With a number of Wanstead’s squad having featured when the club last reached such a stage, they should have the know-how when it comes to dealing with the big occasion.

For Ellis-Grewal such experience, as well as boasting players who have competed at professional level, gives his side the edge ahead of the meeting at the County Ground.

“We got to the national final four or five years ago and seven of the 11 that are playing at the weekend played in that game,” he said.

“We are all five years older, five years more experienced, so timing wise it is perfect and we have a good balance in the squad.

“I hope the lads feel a bit of pressure, but not so much that it prevents them playing. They have all played a bit of first-class cricket and in far bigger games than for Wanstead. I am hoping they go out there, enjoy the day and express themselves.”

While victory on Sunday would represent a big achievement for Wanstead, they have tasted undoubted disappointment recently as they missed out on claiming league glory.

Defeat by three-wickets in a rain-affected match against Chingford allowed Chelmsford to usurp them at the summit of the table at the last.

Despite being dismissed for 158, Wanstead looked to be in a position of power as they reduced Chingford to 48-6 only to be chased down by their opponents.

Ellis-Grewal accepts the failure to add a league title to the Wanstead trophy cabinet came as a blow, but insists winning the National Cup would make for a hugely prosperous season.

“We have had a fantastic season really. We won the 20/20 and were semi-finalists in the League Cup and Conference Cup.

“Unfortunately we would have wrapped the league up if we had won on Saturday and it didn’t quite happen.

“It has been a really good year and we have just got one more game to tick off and hopefully get some more silverware.”

As captain Ellis-Grewal will take more responsibility than most into the final as he leads the only club he has ever played for out for the showpiece event.

Rather than get caught up in the moment, Ellis-Grewal wants to see Wanstead replicate the relaxed atmosphere which has stood them in good stead this season.

“I will tell everyone to just enjoy themselves and go out and play with freedom,” he said.

“I am a big believer in players having to find what works for them. I just look to lead by example and hopefully the lads will follow.

“As long as they go out there and enjoy the day, play with confidence, play with freedom, I am sure we will put in a good performance and come away with the win.”