FA Cup Qualifying Draw
FA Cup fourth qualifying round draw sets up thirty-two crucial ties for non-league clubs.
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Key Points
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The 64 places in the round comprise 40 winners from the third qualifying round and 24 National League clubs entering at this stage.
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SE Dons and Tadley Calleva, both ninth-tier sides, reached the draw by beating higher-ranked opponents; Trafford FC could join them if they win a replay against Atherton Collieries.
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Macclesfield needed a replay to stay in contention after drawing 2-2 with Scarborough Athletic, having come back from two goals down.
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The article notes a recent example of a lower-ranked club reaching the third round: National League South side Weston-super-Mare made that run last season before losing to League Two’s Grimsby.
The FA Cup fourth qualifying round draw has set up 32 ties featuring 64 non-League and lower-tier clubs fighting for a shot at the competition proper. bet365 confirmed that established non-League sides like Carlisle United, Yeovil Town, Southend United, and Hartlepool United will compete alongside ninth-tier hopefuls SE Dons and Tadley Calleva. Most matches are scheduled for October 17, with winners advancing to the first round in November — where they could face Football League opposition and pocket £9,375.
The 64 places come from 40 third qualifying round winners and 24 National League clubs entering at this stage. Express noted that some contenders still need replays to secure their spots, including Macclesfield after drawing 2-2 with Scarborough Athletic from two goals down. If they advance, lower-ranked clubs gain a genuine chance at a lucrative, high-profile fixture against professional opposition.
Ninth-Tier Underdogs Pull Off Stunning Upsets
SE Dons and Tadley Calleva, both ninth-tier sides, earned their places by beating higher-ranked opponents — a rare feat in the pyramid system. Manchester Evening News reported that Trafford FC could join them if they win a replay against Atherton Collieries. These giant-killings show that the FA Cup still rewards smaller clubs with genuine paths forward.
Established Non-League Sides Chase First Round Glory
Carlisle United, Yeovil Town, Southend United, and Hartlepool United — all well-known non-League names — are among the favorites. Mirror confirmed these clubs compete at a higher level within the National League and regional pyramid. A first round win opens doors to ties against Football League sides, generating both prestige and revenue for smaller organizations.
One Win Away From The Big Time
Every team in this draw sits just 90 minutes from the first round proper — the gateway to potential meetings with League One and League Two clubs. bet365 noted the prize is a £9,375 winner's check plus entry into November's first round. Last season, National League South side Weston-super-Mare made a deep run before losing to League Two's Grimsby, proving that lower-ranked clubs can compete when given the chance.
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