Hastings host Cray in FA Cup

The all-Ryman Football League Premier Division first round qualifying tie will take place at The Pilot Field on Saturday September 17.

Although they will have home advantage, it’s a tough draw for Hastings because they could have been paired with lower grade opposition.

Cray came ninth in the league last season with Hastings fifth-bottom. The teams fought out a 1-1 draw at The Pilot Field last August and Hastings lost 2-0 in the reverse fixture in January.

That match was Jason Hopkinson’s first in charge of the U’s and his predecessor, Tony Dolby, joined Cray as a player for the second half of the campaign.

Sidley United have been handed a trip to fellow Sussex County League Division One side Arundel in the extra preliminary round of the same competition on August 20.

Hastings will travel to Southern League Division One Central outfit Bedfont Town or Ryman Division One North team Romford in FA Trophy first round qualifying on October 22.

Sidley will entertain Sussex Division One new boys AFC Uckfield in FA Vase first round qualifying on September 10. Rye United are exempt until the second round proper following their success in last season’s competition.

Hastings will be at home to Tonbridge Angels in the FA Youth Cup preliminary round during the week commencing September 5.