Bay to face new opponents in FA Cup

Whitley will face new opposition in the Extra Preliminary Round of this season’s FA Cup. The draw has handed them a trip down the A1 to just east of Leeds where they will face Garforth Town from the Northern Counties East League. Under new regulations following the late start to the season, the game will be played on Tuesday 1st September, kick off 7.45pm, and the tie must be decided on the night.

Reacting to the draw,  Tony Fawcett commented “Obviously a home draw would have been more favourable but it’s a chance to be involved in a first for the club. It’s going to be a tough fixture.” A midweek away game is not ideal for the fans, who may now be allowed to attend, but Tony’s fellow joint manager Derek Forrest  highlighted the positive aspect. “Away cup ties can enhance team bonding and spirit. There’s nothing like a good cup win on the road. It’s one game and one step at a time. The FA Cup is a great way to start our managerial campaign and the beginning of an exciting new squad and team.”

The tie will be the first competitive game of the season for both clubs. The winners will face a home game against Dunston in the Preliminary Round on Saturday 12th September.

The draw has also been made for the early rounds of the FA Vase and in the 1st Qualifying Round, Whitley have been handed a home tie against Newcastle University. The students were promoted to the Northern League Second Division last season and were sitting in mid table when the campaign was ended prematurely.  The tie will be played on Saturday 19th September with the winners at home to Thornaby in the next round.  With the Northern League fixtures yet to be released, the University tie is currently the first competitive game at Hillheads for the new management duo.

Tony Fawcett is clearly looking forward to the FA Vase fixture and shortly after the draw was announced he told us “I was hoping for a home draw and getting the chance to play in front of the fans. Hopefully tonight’s news has brought that a step closer. The University will give us a tough game. They established themselves well in their first season and will be looking to progress further this season.”