Plymouth Parkway aiming for historic FA Cup first-round appearance

Seventh-tier side Plymouth Parkway are on the brink of a historic achievement. This Saturday, the Southern League Premier Division South club faces Chertsey Town in the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup, aiming to reach the first round of the competition for the first time in their history.

For the club, this match is treated as their personal "FA Cup final." A victory would secure them a place in Monday's draw, where they would join professional clubs from the English Football League, including their prominent city neighbours, Plymouth Argyle.

It's our FA Cup final. We've had a tough run, beating teams from higher leagues, and now we're focused on getting the job done on Saturday. Karl Curtis

Chairman Mark Russell highlights that beyond the historical significance, reaching the first round provides a major financial boost. With the club harbouring ambitions to climb the football pyramid, a draw against a big club would offer an invaluable experience for both players and supporters.

Midfielder Rio Garside, a former Plymouth Argyle academy player, is eager for a potential reunion with his old club. Meanwhile, top scorer Andrew Neal, who experienced the first round with Truro City in 2017, emphasises that these are the moments players cherish for the rest of their careers.