Nantwich fly the flag for NPL in FA Cup

They welcome former NPL side AFC Fylde to the Weaver Stadium, looking to cause an upset against the National League outfit and book a place in the second round for the first time ever.


Defender Troy Bourne, who scored the only goal in the 1-0 win over King’s Lynn Town in the fourth qualifying round, told the club’s official website: “We all know it’s going to be tough playing against a team like Fylde, but it won’t stop us giving our all and also giving them a run for their money.

“We have every chance of making it through to the second round, and from our performances in previous rounds we have every chance of doing so.

“Playing in front of a packed Weaver Stadium will be brilliant. It will bring the community together and is a great chance to showcase what we’re about as a club.”

As well as King’s Lynn, Nantwich also knocked out National League North opposition in the shape of AFC Telford United in the second qualifying round, either side of wins against BetVictor Northern Premier rivals Grantham Town and Morpeth Town.

Striker Joe Malkin said: “It’s a great achievement from everybody, and the opportunity for the team to play opposition from higher up the footballing pyramid is incredible.

“It’s the first time I’ve ever been this far in this prestigious competition and if I’m honest, neither I nor the rest of the team feel we’re done just yet.

“I was excited with the home draw as getting drawn at your home ground always gives you a chance.

“It was also good for us to avoid teams in the Football League, and we’ve now got a solid chance at keeping our name in the hat, though we obviously see it will be a difficult game.”

AFC Fylde have changed manager’s since they won through to the first round with a 6-1 thumping of Peterborough Sports.

Long-term Morecambe manager Jim Bentley was tempted to make the switch following the departure of Dave Challinor last month.

The big-spending Lancastrians have been struggling in the league this season, winning five of 19 games as they sit just one place above the relegation zone.

Bentley told the club’s official website: “It’s a welcome distraction now though, and a game we’re all really looking forward to. It’s an opportunity for us to go and win, we want to win every game, that’s what it’s all about.

“Nantwich have done well, they’ve got good players, exciting prospects, a bit of aggression; they’re a nicely balanced side, and have done well to get where they are – so it’s a really big game for both clubs.

“It’s a great competition to be involved in, and although I think it gets disrespected by the bigger clubs, this gives us the chance to get that exposure, and if you can get to the Third Round, the big boys come in, and you get the chance to pit your wits against the best teams in the world.

“The FA Cup always throws up tough games, that’s what it’s all about – there’ll be giant killers, and upsets, so we just need to make sure we aren’t one of them,”

There will be an Act of Remembrance for all those who gave their lives in two World Wars and since serving their country, led by Arthur Rigby, the Chairman of the Nantwich & District Royal British Legion, supported by the President and Mayor of Nantwich, Councillor Arthur Moran.

The Last Post will be played by bugler, Peter Jeeves, with the event commencing 10 minutes before kick-off.

Admission for the game is priced at £11 for adults, £8 for concessions and £3 for U16s, who are free when accompanied by a full-paying adult.