South Shields learn FA Cup fate

They are the last remaining Northern Premier League side in the competition following the weekend’s games.

Manager Kevin Phillips told Sky Sports News: "I'm absolutely delighted with the draw, and that we've got one at home.

"We all agreed that if we got an away tie, we'd have loved Derby, Sheffield Wednesday, Ipswich or Portsmouth - a huge club. But no disrespect to Forest Green, they are going to be a tough opposition for us at home.

"But our home form since I've been at the football club has been excellent. I think we've only been beaten there once, so it's a bit of a fortress.

"It will be a tough day for us, but we will believe we can get a result. It's a day the club deserves. They got into the first round a couple of years ago, but unfortunately it was during Covid where there were no fans allowed. This time the supporters can enjoy the occasion.

"We had a great day on Saturday [against Scunthorpe in the fourth qualifying round], with 2,500 there, so I'm expecting probably even more fans in for the Forest Green game.

"We fancy our chances against anybody at our place. It's an intimidating place to come, it's very noisy, the crowd is right on top of you. What we can't afford to do is let them settle into the game and play their football. They are, technically, a very, very good side.

"It will be a bumper crowd and, if we're lucky enough to be drawn as the TV game, which would be fantastic and great exposure for the football club."

South Shields booked their place with a win over former Football League side Scunthorpe United at the weekend.

Dylan Mottley-Henry’s header after 13 minutes was enough to win the tie in front of a 2,353 crowd at the 1st Cloud Arena.

Elsewhere in the fourth qualifying round, reigning NPL champions Buxton put paid to Hyde’s run in this year’s competition. Scott Boden’s brace turned things around after Hyde had taken the lead through Jack Redshaw.

Worksop Town also bowed out, losing 3-2 at Alvechurch having briefly threatened a very late fightback from 3-0 down.

The FA Cup first round is due to take place on Saturday 5 November, with prize money of £41,000 for the winenrs.

A total of six fixtures will be selected for live UK TV coverage, with the possibility for another eight to be selected by other broadcasters.

Photos courtesy of Darren Murphy