The first weekend in November saw the FA Cup first round return, with plenty of Greater Manchester-based teams in action.
Bolton 1-0 Grimsby
Bolton continued their fine recent form to overcome Grimsby with a victory by a single goal. The goal came in the 20th minute when Liam Trotter converted Zach Clough’s corner into the back of the net with a measured header. They will play fellow League One promotion hopefuls Sheffield United at home in the second round.
Bury 2-2 AFC Wimbledon
Bury face a replay with AFC Wimbledon after they threw away a two-goal lead at Gigg Lane. Hallam Hope’s double inside the first 30 minutes meant it looked like the Shakers would be progressing, however two goals in six second-half minutes brought the visitors level. The winners of the replay will face a trip to the winner of the tie between Westfields and Curzon Ashton.
Oldham 2-1 Doncaster
Oldham put their League One struggles to one side as they overcame League Two Doncaster. Goals either side of half time ensured progression, with Doncaster converting a late penalty which was no more than a consolation. They will visit Lincoln City in the second round.
Maidstone 1-1 Rochdale
An equaliser by Rochdale with the last kick of the game broke Maidstone hearts and meant the tie will require a replay to decide who will play Carlisle for a place in the third round. Maidstone, who play two divisions below Rochdale in the National League, went ahead in the first half thanks to a 21st minute penalty. A 94th minute deflected free kick meant the contest ended all square.
Lincoln City 2-1 Altrincham
Altrincham faced a tough test in their game against Lincoln but could not get the result required against a side who play in the division above the Robins. It is fair to say the home side dominated, both on shots and possession. Whilst John Cyrus’ goal in the 75th minute gave the visitors hope, it did not leave enough time to get an equaliser.
Westfields 1-1 Curzon Ashton
Curzon Ashton left it late against the lowest ranked side left in the competition, ninth tier Westfields FC. Despite going behind within 10 minutes, National League North side Curzon dominated the game and were rewarded with a goal from a goalmouth scramble with nine minutes to play. The winners of the replay will earn a home match against the winner of the Bury versus Wimbledon replay.
Stockport 2-4 Woking
Despite going ahead twice against Woking, Stockport lost out in a game that finished 4-2 to the away side. Despite a more than admirable fight against opposition from the league above, County could not find a goal after Woking made it 2-3 in the 59th minute. The seal was put on the win with a further goal in injury time.
The second round ties will be played between Friday 2nd December and Monday 5th December.
