Ryan Walmsley gives the low-down on local teams’ progress in this year’s FA Cup competition.
Eight local teams were whittled down to six after the FA Cup third qualifying round this weekend – and those who remain are now just one win away from the first round proper.
Greenwich Borough, Canvey Island, East Thurrock United, Concord Rangers all advanced to the next stage after winning and they will be joined in the draw by Chelmsford City and Grays who picked up credible draws.
However, home defeats for both Billericay Town and Ebbsfleet United mean their cup runs have come to an abrupt end.
Greenwich Borough progressed to the fourth qualifying round for the first time in their history after Billy Bennett’s goal on the stroke of half-time led them to a 1-0 home win over Redhill, whilst John Sand’s 10th goal of the season earned Canvey Island a narrow victory against Barton Rovers.
Concord Rangers narrowly avoided a cup upset after they squeezed past a Winchester City side who play three tiers below them; and there was also a home victory for East Thurrock who advanced despite falling behind early on against Tooting and Mitcham.
Grays Athletic managed a credible 0-0 home draw after they faced off with Conference South side Bromley FC. Chelmsford City played in the tie of the round as the Clarets battled to an exhilarating 4-4 draw away at Whitehawk. Joe Ward scored twice, including a late equaliser, ensuring the Essex side will have a second chance to progress in a replay on Monday night.
Ebbsfleet slipped to a 2-1 home defeat to Conference South table toppers Basingstoke despite taking the lead and there was also a loss for Billericay Town who lost by a solitary goal to Weymouth meaning that neither side will progress any further.
Selected fourth round qualifying draw:
East Thurrock United v Bath City/Shortwood United
Dartford v Burgess Hill Town
Maidstone United v Welling
Leamington/Worcester City v Greenwich Borough
Canvey Island v Havant & Waterlooville
St. Albans City v Concord Rangers
Evesham United v Grays Athletic/Bromley
Whitehawk/Chelmsford City v Barnet