Browse Sections

• Local football
• Local cricket

FA Cup derby date

1/10/2008

THERE will be at least one local side 90 minutes from the first round of this season’s FA Cup after Monday’s third qualifying round draw paired Curzon Ashton and Mossley.

Both sides recorded 2-1 wins on the road in last weekend’s second qualifying round, Curzon beating Stocksbridge Park Steels and Mossley victorious at Kendal Town.

The tie sees two of the UniBond League Division One North’s teams come face to face with Chris Willcock’s Lilywhites in fourth place, one ahead of Gary Lowe’s Curzon side.

Both clubs are in negotiations to move the game back 24 hours to Sunday, October 12 with England’s World Cup game scheduled for the 11th, as well as the FA Cup games involving Droylsden and Stalybridge Celtic.

Lowe said: "It’s a terrific draw for Tameside, for both clubs and their spectators. I think it’s a game both clubs wanted when you think who you could have drawn. The Mossley spectators are always good fun and they’ll make it a good day."

Droylsden’s reward for seeing off Bradford Park Avenue is a home draw against either Gateshead or Witton Albion.

They drew their match 1-1 last weekend with the replay taking place on Tuesday as the Advertiser went to press.

Having beaten Farsley 4-0 in the battle of the Celtics, Stalybridge have been given a home tie against UniBond League Division One North outfit Durham City.

Although Steve Burr’s side will head into the game as favourites, the visitors should not be underestimated.

They are unbeaten so far this season, scoring 15 goals and conceding none during their FA Cup campaign to date.

Hyde United’s conquerors, Whitley Bay, were also drawn at home and they now face UniBond League Premier Division opposition in the form of Nantwich Town.

As well as going into the final qualifying round with Football League opposition in sight, there is also the small matter of £7,500 prize money going to the winners of the 40 third qualifying round ties.