EMIRATES FA CUP | BEST DAY EVER FOR CLAYTON

We talk to Bishops Cleeve goalkeeper, Lewis Clayton, and look at the third round qualifying draw

There was joy for Bishops Cleeve at the weekend as they celebrated one of the greatest days in their history by comprehensively beating Torquay United 3-0 in the Emirates FA Cup second round qualifying in front of a crowd of almost 1,200.

Goalkeeper, Lewis Clayton, played his part with a clean sheet in what was a fantastic performance by everyone involved on and off the pitch.

“You can’t really put into words how good the day was,” Clayton told us. “I don’t think I’ll have a better day on a football pitch, that’s for sure.

“The whole football club made it a day to remember, even before a ball was kicked, the preparations and build-up was fantastic, everyone came together to do their bit and the convincing win was the final piece of the jigsaw.

“We felt great going into the game. We were by far the underdogs, but we saw it as a free hit, the chance to just go out there, fear nothing, play with freedom and enjoy the occasion.

“We certainly did that! Every player made a contribution and as a squad we should be extremely proud of what we have achieved, something that will be remembered for years to come.

“I never even thought about being able to keep a clean sheet before the game; it was one of those things you dream about, but as a defensive unit we’ve been solid for the past few games, and we took that into Saturday.

“It’s really created a buzz around the local area and hopefully it will inspire the locals to come along and support us more. Having their support was incredible and played a huge part in the win.

“That’s seven clean sheets in all competitions for me now this season and it’s a massive confidence boost. As a group we’re hungry for more and we know beyond doubt now what we are capable of when things click into place.

“We’re a good footballing side and we just need to find that extra level of consistency to take us that extra step further.

“This is sure to give us an extra boost in our quest to make the play-offs having come close in each of the last two seasons.

“We’ve also got another home draw to look forward to in the next round of the FA Cup against a Chesham United side who are in the same League of Torquay having gained promotion at the end of last season.

“Hopefully we can make home advantage count once more and create some more special memories.”

The Emirates FA Cup third round qualifying draw took place on Monday lunchtime. If Barwell can beat Buxton in their replay, they will host Kidderminster Harriers, whilst Leiston will welcome Hornchurch if they can firstly overcome Brentwood Town.

Lowestoft Town await the winners of Haringey Borough or Witham Town, whilst Redditch United will host either Rugby Town or Hednesford Town if they can get past Shifnal Town in their replay.

One definite tie is Harborough Town at home to Leamington, so too is Royston Town entertaining Peterborough Sports and Biggleswade FC having home advantage against Canvey Island as they compete at this stage of the competition for the first-ever time.

Meanwhile Biggleswade Town will be at home to either Spalding United or Alfreton Town, whilst St. Ives Town and Kettering Town will go head-to-head. An away trip awaits Bromsgrove Sporting at Chelmsford City, as Bishop’s Stortford host the winners of the Hereford or Ilkeston Town.

A home tie awaits Chertsey Town against Ashford United, Winchester City or Hungerford Town will also have home advantage against Weymouth. Hitting the road will be Walton & Hersham as they head to Tonbridge Angels, whilst Plymouth Parkway go to Sittingbourne.

It’s a home draw for Taunton Town this time as they entertain Amersham Town. Either Gosport Borough or Gloucester City will go to Oxford City and it will be either Melksham Town or Banbury United heading to Carshalton Athletic.
Finally, Larkhall Athletic’s adventure continues with an away clash at Boreham Wood.

The ties will be played on Saturday, September 28th 2024. We extend our best wishes to all of our Member Clubs who are still involved in this fantastic competition.

IMAGE: Bishops Cleeve FC