Hallam FC take on Ashton United in the First Qualifying Round of the FA Cup at Sandygate this Sunday. It’s the first ever meeting between the two clubs, and it promises to be a real test for the Countrymen, facing opposition from the league above.

Ashton United will arrive in Sheffield with plenty of confidence and ambition; coming off the back of a 3-1 win against top-of-the-league FC United of Manchester, and losing only once this season, sitting fourth in their league. Steve Cunningham’s men are also a tough defence to break down, conceding only three times in their six league games.

Hallam come into the tie in good spirits after collecting their first home league victory of the season last weekend. Goals from Brodie Litchfield, Leon Howarth, and centre-back Danny South gave the Countrymen a much-needed win over Blyth Town. That result will have lifted the squad and the home supporters ahead of what could be one of their biggest games of the campaign so far.

The FA Cup always carries extra excitement, and Hallam have been fortunate enough to bring that to Sandygate in every round so far. Craig Denton’s side overcame Lower Breck and City of Liverpool, winning 3–1 in both ties, to reach the First Qualifying Round. Those victories showed both attacking intent and determination, qualities they’ll need when facing higher-level opponents.

Forwards Benni Ndlovu and Litchfield have been key in those cup games, with the latter scoring three times in the first two rounds. He goes into this weekend as Hallam’s top scorer with four across all competitions and will once again be looked to for goals if the Countrymen are to go through to the next round.

The Robins carry a real attacking threat and have players who can hurt defence, including Luca Navarro, their top scorer with three this campaign. Speaking ahead of the tie, Cunningham acknowledged that Hallam are a physical and committed team who will provide a challenge for them, despite being in a lower division, but, nonetheless, he remains confident his side have the quality to get through to the next round.

For Hallam, the defensive organisation of Danny South and the energy in midfield from Brandon Bradbury will be crucial in trying to contain Ashton’s threats. At the same time, they’ll need to make the most of home advantage. Sandygate has often been a fortress for the Countrymen, and the backing of a strong home crowd could play its part in what is expected to be a close, hard-fought match.

With both teams battling for a place in the next round of this famous competition, the stage is set for an entertaining cup tie. Kick-off is at 2pm this Sunday at Sandygate, the world’s oldest football ground. The Hallam faithful will be hoping their side can rise to the occasion and keep their FA Cup journey alive.

Match Preview by: Max Burgar-Briggs

Photo Credits: Ian Manewell