Imps begin another trail to Cardiff

By Nathan Jackson
October 22 2003

Saturday sees the first round of the FA Cup proper. Will City be able to improve on last season's 1st Round Exit to Carlisle or will it be another early exit?

On Saturday, at 5:05, the draw for the first round of the FA Cup proper will take place. In previous seasons, City haven't got very far in the competition.

Last season, the Imps were eliminated in the first round by Carlisle at Brunton Park. In 2001/2, City needed a replay to get past Bury in the first round before going out to Leyton Orient in the 2nd Round 2-1. Orient then drew Portsmouth away and then Everton away.

In 2000/1, City were through to the 2nd round after beating Bracknell Town 4-0 at Sincil Bank. However, a last minute error by keeper Matthew Ghent sent Dagenham through to a 3rd round tie at Charlton.

In 1999/2000, City beat Welling 1-0 at Sincil Bank before crashing out 1-0 in a replay to Luton Town.

1998/9 was the last time City reached the 3rd Round. In the 1st Round, City won 1-0 at then non-league Cheltenham before beating Steveange 4-1 at Sincil Bank. City then lost out in the 3rd round to Premiership side Sunderland with a last minute goal sending the Mackam's through.

In 1997/8, City progressed through to the 2nd round after beating local rivals Gainsborough in the 1st round replay. The 2nd round game against Emley looked like easy progression but after a 2-2 draw at Sincil Bank, Emley went through on penalties at Huddersfield's McAlpine Stadium. Emley drew a nice 3rd round tie at West Ham.

So, will City get through to the 2nd Round. I feel if we avoid a league team or a high flying conference team then we have an excellent chance of going through.

The draw is made on Saturday evening at 5:05 and is live on BBC1.