The FA Cup Journey Begins For National League Clubs Again

By Sam Elliott

The FA Cup is back in the lives of National League clubs with more incredible memories about to be created.

The second qualifying round comes to life as 48 of our clubs join the competition and one in particular will tell you just how important it is to keep getting through the early stages.

Sides from the Vanarama National League North and South are entering on Saturday and Maidstone United know all about the magic the famous competition can create.

The Stones were one step away from the quarter-finals last season, bringing in an estimated £500,000 in the process.

The last thing they want is to fall at the first hurdle a season on but have a tricky test against a side in their own division - Hampton & RB head to the Gallagher Stadium.

Watch out big hitters! Scunthorpe United don’t want to become the story of the round but a trip to Newcastle Town will test the Iron’s professionalism.

Southport midfielder Callum Spooner finds himself in an unusual position - looking to shatter his dad’s dreams. His father Nick manages Hyde and things could get awkward over Sunday lunch!

Truro City boss John Askey wants his team to make sure there are no more FA Cup moments for National League North side Brackley Town.

"It's not only the money that can be earned from it that can change a club, but also I think if you can have a run in it it gives the club a massive lift and creates interest,” he said.

Two National League South sides meet as Eastbourne Borough welcome Boreham Wood while Warrington Town face Radcliffe.

It’s a tricky tie for Scarborough Athletic at Dunston with Dorking Wanderers needed to nurse their recent paid by beating Hosham, who gave Barnsley a great run for their money last season.

Kidderminster Harriers will welcome Leek Town while a large number of Merthyr Town fans are expected at Bath City.

There’s a local game between Spennymoor and Morpeth Town, Chelmsford City are at Tilbury as Bishop’s Cleeve prepare for Torquay United.

The winners of this weekend’s ties bank a cheque for £3,375 from the FA’s prize fund, with the defeated sides earning £1,125.

Click here to view the draw in full.

Where next?

It’s So Tight At The Top Ahead Of A Huge Weekend Another National League Saturday is almost here and you can slip a cigarette paper between the teams at the top.
Wood Waste No Time As They Announce Garrard's Return Boreham Wood have wasted little time in appointing their new manager - and it's someone very familiar.

Match centre

Vanarama National League North
Vanarama National League South
National League Cup Group A