Every year the FA Cup offers hundreds of teams the opportunity to dream. With a total of 732 clubs entering the competition there is space for just 76 non-league clubs in the first round proper. Dreams of a big tie such as Marine vs Spurs or the first round proper as achieved by our 2019/20 conquerors Skelmersdale, feature prominently in the minds of every entrant.

To simply reach the first round proper, Town will have to come through six qualifying rounds, beginning this weekend at home to West Didsbury & Chorlton. Promoted last season from the NWCFL South division as champions, West have started their Premier division campaign unbeaten in two games. On opening day, West played out a 1-1 draw at Ashton Athletic, being denied the victory by an 88th minute equaliser from the home side having took the lead late in the game themselves. Tomorrow's visitors however did gain their first victory of the season on Tuesday as they came from behind to beat Prestwich Heys 2-1. It represents a good start for the Manchester based side, and tees up what promises to be a cracking game at The Recycling Lives Ground.

As for Lee Ashchroft's Longridge side, they should come into this well rested after our scheduled midweek trip to Burscough was postponed. That means Town have been given a full week to prepare for the start of their cup campaign following last weekends 2-1 home victory over Congleton Town. The form of that win has stacked up well this week, as Congleton went on to defeat Ashton Athletic 4-0 on Tuesday. Manager, Ashcroft is set to work with a similar squad to last weeks. Although Jack Arrowsmith’s availability is a boost, Scott Harries faces a late fitness test whilst there are still a few notable absentees from the squad list.

The winner of tomorrows extra preliminary round will face either Squires Gate or Northwich Victoria in the preliminary round on the 20th August.

Admission is pay on the gate for tomorrows tie, with prices as follows:

Adults £6
Concessions (65+) £4
Youth (12-18) £1
Under 12's FREE

Up The Ridge!