Six of Darlo’s last seven games have seen Steve Watson’s men keep clean sheets. The former Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Everton man, took over at Blackwell Meadows at the back end of 2023, having managed the likes of Gateshead, York City & Chester in the National League North. Watson was coached by Holy Blues boss Russ Wilcox during his days at Sheffield Wednesday, so the Trinity manager knows his opposition well. It is a tough test for Gainsborough, facing a team from the division above, but is a chance to punch a ticket in the fourth and final qualifying round.

While it would be a first time in seven years that the Holy Blues manage to reach that stage of the competition, it would be the first time in four years for their National League North opposition. Taking a trip down the history of both clubs in the competition and you find a first round meeting from the 1946/47 season, where the Quakers came away with a 2-1 victory.

Trinity come into the game riding the wave of two good performances. While the results might not have matched, Gainsborough applied themselves well against both Stockton Town and high-flyers Macclesfield. Another strong performance could see the Holy Blues to victory, another step closer to facing the ‘big boys’ in the FA Cup Proper, and crucially an extra injection of cash.

Safe travels Blues' fans! And remember to wear/pack your blue kits, as Russ Wilcox's men will be donning our stunning Elite Workwear sponsored number for this one! Get behind the lads, and get our name in Monday's draw!

Ticket Information

Tickets can be purchased at the following prices, £12 Adults, Concessions £8*, Under 18s £5, Under 12s are free, when accompanied by a paying adult (arriving at the turnstiles together). Contactless card payments/ cash taken at all turnstiles at Blackwell Meadows. Please be aware, there is a £2 seat upgrade charge.

* Concessions are Senior (65+) Young Adult 18024, Students, Registered Disabled (Carer admitted free)

Other NPL Sides in the Emirates FA Cup Third Qualifying Round:

Three teams have home advantage against higher league opposition, while Tuesday night's victors, Macclesfield have a home game against Cheshire neighbours and Step 4 side Witton Albion at the Leasing.com stadium.

Guiseley vs Scunthorpe United
Stockton Town vs Chester
Warrington Rylands vs Scarborough Athletic
Macclesfield vs Witton Albion

NPL Games:

While some sides are looking to continue their road to Wembley, a dozen sides are back in league action. Those fixtures are listed here:

Bamber Bridge vs Mickleover
Blyth Spartans vs Basford United
Hyde United vs FC United of Manchester
Ilkeston Town vs Ashton United
Prescot Cables vs Leek Town
Whitby Town vs Matlock Town

Preview by Rob Hughes (@AATM_Media) and Jamie Johnson (@JJohnson_16)
Image by Heather King Photography (@heather_king_photography)