A DRAW for the FA Vase has provided 1874 Northwich and Winsford United with homework to do on new opponents.
Blues were paired with Gresley, relegated from the Northern Premier League’s East Division at the end of last season, in a draw for the first qualifying round published on Friday.
Lee Duckworth’s men travel to the compact Moat Ground to start their latest campaign after reaching the first round last time around.
1874 Northwich face a much shorter journey to take on lower-ranked hosts in the form of Prestwich Heys.
An incentive to progress for both mid Cheshire sides is the reward of having home advantage at the next stage.
Meanwhile Northwich Victoria, beaten agonisingly after an epic encounter with eventual winners Chertsey Town in the semi-finals last season, are exempt until the second round.
Here’s everything you need to know about today’s FA Vase draw:
When?
Saturday, August 31 (kick-off 3pm)
Who?
Gresley v Winsford United
Prestwich Heys v 1874 Northwich
Prize money
Winners £550
Losers £175
And if they get through?
Gresley or Winsford United v FC Oswestry Town or Bustleholme
Prestwich Heys or 1874 Northwich v Cammell Laird or Charnock Richard
Those ties are scheduled for Saturday, September 14 (kick-off 3pm)
What about Northwich Victoria?
Steve Wilkes’ side are one of 26 clubs exempt to the second round as a reward for their run to the semi-finals stage last season
Their first fixture in this season’s edition is scheduled for November
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