Cray Wanderers Prepare for Historic First FA Cup First-Round Match

Cray Wanderers, Stockport County, Tim O’Shea and Ade Yusuff
8 November 2026

Cray Wanderers are preparing for their first FA Cup first-round appearance after 78 attempts across the club’s 166-year history. The seventh-tier side will host League One promotion contenders Stockport County.

Cray qualified by defeating Bedford Town 4-3 on penalties following a dramatic fourth qualifying-round replay. Goalkeeper JJ Briggs made two saves before Jakob Lowe converted the decisive penalty. Their first-round opponents sit 112 league positions above them, making the tie a significant giant-killing opportunity. The match at Flamingo Park sold out within five minutes, with approximately 2,500 supporters expected.

Why It Matters

One of London's oldest football clubs reaches the FA Cup first round for the first time and faces an opponent 112 league positions higher.

Upcoming Match

Cray Wanderers vs Stockport County