The magic of the Emirates FA Cup returns in November, with non-league clubs across the country discovering their opponents for the First Round Proper. The ties are scheduled for the weekend of 7 November, with clubs dreaming of a giant-killing, a place in the Second Round and a memorable moment in their history.
There are several intriguing all-non-league clashes, alongside mouth-watering ties against Football League opposition. With £47,750 in winner’s prize money and £15,800 for the losing clubs listed for the round, there is plenty at stake.
Oxford City vs Leicester City
One of the headline ties sees Oxford City take on Leicester City. It promises to be a major occasion for the non-league side, who will relish the opportunity to test themselves against higher-league opposition and dream of a famous cup upset.
Bradford City vs Marine
Marine will be hoping to create more FA Cup memories when they face Bradford City. The Merseyside club have enjoyed memorable runs in the competition before, and this tie offers another chance to put non-league football in the spotlight.
Plymouth Parkway vs Berkhamsted
An all-non-league clash guarantees one club from outside the Football League a place in the Second Round. Both Plymouth Parkway and Berkhamsted will see this as a genuine opportunity to extend their cup adventure.
Dover Athletic vs Wealdstone
Dover Athletic face Wealdstone in another meeting between non-league sides. Both clubs will be targeting progression and the chance of another attractive draw in the next round.
Kidderminster Harriers vs Doncaster Rovers
Kidderminster Harriers have been handed a home tie against Doncaster Rovers. The hosts will hope home advantage can inspire a special performance, while Doncaster will be keen to avoid an upset.
Leyton Orient vs Harborough Town
Harborough Town face an exciting challenge against Leyton Orient. The opportunity to take on league opposition is a major incentive, and the FA Cup gives non-league clubs a stage to test themselves against teams from higher up the pyramid.
Barnsley vs Aldershot Town or Tadley Calleva
Aldershot Town or Tadley Calleva will be looking forward to a potentially exciting trip to Barnsley. The outstanding qualifying tie will decide Barnsley’s opponents, with a big occasion awaiting whichever club progresses.
Chesterfield vs Leatherhead or Yeovil Town
Chesterfield will face either Leatherhead or Yeovil Town, with the result of the outstanding tie deciding their opponents. Both potential visitors will be aiming to make the most of their opportunity.
More non-league ties to watch
- Bury or Harrogate Town vs AFC Fylde – AFC Fylde await the winners of the outstanding tie.
- Burton Albion vs AFC Rushden & Diamonds – Rushden & Diamonds face a tough test against league opposition.
- Bedford Town or Cray Wanderers vs Stockport County – A big occasion awaits the qualifying winners.
- Cheltenham Town vs FC Halifax Town – Halifax have the chance to take on Football League opposition.
- Colchester United vs Chorley or Worcester City – The qualifying winners will travel to Colchester.
- Plymouth Argyle vs Spalding United or Alvechurch – A potentially memorable trip awaits the side that progresses.
- Gateshead or Stafford Rangers vs Grimsby Town – Stafford Rangers could earn a tie against Grimsby if they advance.
- Altrincham or FC United of Manchester vs Notts County – An attractive fixture awaits the winners.
- Gillingham vs Barrow or Gloucester City – The qualifying winners will hope to make their mark.
- Hornchurch vs Blackpool – Hornchurch have the opportunity to welcome league opposition.
The prize money
The financial rewards add another incentive for clubs competing in the First Round Proper. The prize money supplied for this draw is £47,750 for the winners and £15,800 for the losing clubs. Progression also brings the possibility of further prize money, greater exposure and another opportunity to make history in the Second Round.
The magic of the FA Cup continues
From all-non-league encounters to potential giant-killings, there is plenty to look forward to when the ties take place over the weekend of 7 November. For supporters of the non-league game, the FA Cup is all about the possibility of an unforgettable afternoon, a famous result and a club making history.
Which non-league club do you think has the best chance of causing an upset? Let us know in the comments and follow NonLeagueReview for more FA Cup news, fixtures, results and reaction.