Friday 14 October 2022

FA CUP FOURTH QUALIFYING ROUND PREVIEW: 2022-23

Yeovil Town vs Taunton Town

County bragging rights will be at stake when Yeovil Town host their Somerset neighbours Taunton Town at Huish Park. It wasn't that long ago that the Glovers reached the Championship whilst the Peacocks were in the lower reaches of the Southern League; however, just one division seperates them - with Yeovil in the National League and Taunton plying their trade in the National League South. 

Nevertheless, the Glovers have a fine pedigree in the cup - having beaten a record 21 league sides in the competitions. Manager Chris Hargreaves also has some fond memories of playing in the FA Cup himself, having featured against Manchester United for Northampton Town and helped Torquay United reach the fourth round of the competition in the 2008-09 season, so he will be keen to add to those.

Torquay United vs Hampton and Richmond Borough

Torquay United's FA Cup fourth qualifying round tie with National League South side Hampton and Richmond Borough will provide a certain amount of respite for the Gulls, who find themselves bottom of the National League. 

Although performances have improved of late, but United haven't tasted victory since September 3, when they beat Southend United 2-1 at Roots Hall. However, should they secure a win it would provide them with a confidence boost and some momentum that they can take into their league campaign. 

Barnet vs Weston Super Mare

After a strong start to their Southern League Premier South campaign,  Weston Super Mare will surely be looking forward to testing themselves against National League side Barnet. The Seagulls' squad possesses a number of individuals with Football League experience including Reuben Reid (Plymouth Argyle, Rotherham United, Forest Green Rovers, Exeter City) and Dayle Grubb (Forest Green Rovers). 

Havant and Waterlooville vs Weymouth

Weymouth will be looking to end their 15-year wait for an appearance in the FA Cup first round when they face their fellow National League South outfit Havant and Waterlooville. 

Manager Bobby Wilkinson has received the boost from the return to fitness of Xander McBurnie and Cam Murray, as he also aims to reach the first round proper for the first time as a manager.