FA Cup Second Qualifying Round Draw Sets 80 Fixtures for September

AFC Totton is entering the FA Cup at the second qualifying round, rather than progressing from an earlier tie, because the National League South club was not required to enter until this stage.
Cambridge City’s potential progression to the third qualifying round would be only the club’s third such appearance in the past 14 seasons. Manager Mickey Spillane said the 6-1 win over Maldon & Tiptree was deserved, adding: “We were brilliant from start to finish.”
Lewes drew 2-2 with Cray Wanderers in their first meeting and would face National League South side Maidstone United if they win the replay; the Sussex club is reportedly keen on the prospect of a home tie against Maidstone at the Dripping Pan.
The regional clubs not involved in the FA Cup second qualifying round will begin their FA Vase campaigns: New Milton Town will visit Baffins Milton Rovers, Brockenhurst travel to Frimley Green, Christchurch face Cowes Sports and Fawley AFC host Ash United.
The FA Cup second qualifying round draw has set 80 ties for September 19, with prize money on the line and several high-profile regional matchups emerging. Advertiser and Times reported that AFC Totton will host either Gloucester City or Mangotsfield United, while Morecambe faces Southport in another notable tie. Winning teams will earn £3,375, with runners-up receiving £1,125.
Several Sussex clubs have learned their opponents, though some must first win midweek replays to advance. Sussex Express noted that seven Sussex teams are competing in the draw, with Lewes hoping to overcome Cray Wanderers and face National League South side Maidstone United in the next round if victorious.
Cambridge City will play Yaxley or Buckhurst Hill after their dominant 6-1 victory over Maldon & Tiptree. Cambridge Independent reported the draw was delayed until winners emerged from the 1-1 replay between Yaxley and Buckhurst Hill. Manager Mickey Spillane praised his team's performance, saying they were "brilliant from start to finish."
Reaching the third qualifying round would mark only Cambridge City's third appearance at that stage in 14 seasons. The victory sets up a strong opportunity for the club to advance further in the competition and earn additional prize money.
Lewes drew 2-2 with Cray Wanderers in their first meeting and faces a midweek replay. Sussex Express reported the Sussex club is eager for a home tie at the Dripping Pan against National League South side Maidstone United if they win the replay. The prospect has generated excitement among the club's supporters.
Other Sussex clubs in the draw include Eastbourne Borough facing Windsor & Eton at home, Chichester City meeting SE Dons, and Horsham traveling to Walton & Hersham. Burgess Hill and others must also navigate replays to reach the second qualifying round proper.
Isthmian explained that Step 2 teams from National League North and South join the FA Cup at the second qualifying round. Teams from Step 3 and below who have already advanced compete alongside them. This structure means stronger non-league clubs enter later than lower divisions.
Other significant ties include Bury playing Workington, Chester hosting Lower Breck, and Torquay United against either Basingstoke Town or AFC Stoneham. LEP noted that Morecambe and Lancaster City all featured in the draw alongside other National League competitors.
Clubs not involved in the FA Cup second qualifying round will shift focus to the FA Vase. New Milton Town travels to Baffins Milton Rovers, Brockenhurst goes to Frimley Green, and Christchurch faces Cowes Sports in their opening matches. Advertiser and Times noted that Fawley AFC will host Ash United.
These regional clubs will pursue silverware in a parallel competition while watching the FA Cup second qualifying round play out. The FA Vase offers clubs outside the main cup structure a chance at glory.
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