FA Cup Excitement: Altrincham and Cray Wanderers Set for Showdowns on BBC

Moss Lane is set to be the battleground for Altrincham's quest to pull off yet another FA Cup shock against a league rival. The non-league clubs Altrincham and Cray Wanderers have been selected by the BBC for two key first-round clashes next month. Altrincham, a National League side, will host the illustrious Notts County, who were once Cup winners, on Saturday, November 7 at 17:15 GMT, available to watch on BBC Two and iPlayer. Meanwhile, Cray Wanderers, hailing from the seventh-tier Isthmian League and making their debut at this stage of the tournament, will face League One leaders Stockport County the following day, Sunday, November 8 at 14:15 GMT, also on BBC Two/iPlayer. Cray secured their spot in the first round by defeating Bedford Town in a nail-biting penalty shootout after the two sides drew 2-2. As London's oldest football club, Cray has a rich history, having formed even before the inaugural FA Cup in 1872. Not to be outdone, Altrincham boasts a remarkable record of 17 victories against league teams, making them the most successful non-league side in terms of giant-killing. Notts County, a founder member of the Football League in 1888, claimed the FA Cup in 1894 but faced an early exit last year when they lost on penalties to Brackley. The FA Cup first round will feature four clubs making their debut at this level, highlighting the competition's unpredictability. Jason Mohammad will take the reins for Saturday's coverage, while Alex Scott will be on the scene in Cray on Sunday. A highlights show will air on Sunday, November 8 at 17:10 GMT on BBC Two/iPlayer, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment of the weekend’s action. All the goals from the first round will be easily accessible on BBC digital platforms, including the BBC Sport website and app. The draw for the second round will take place just before the tie between Plymouth Parkway and Berkhamsted Town on Monday, November 9. In addition to the BBC's featured matches, six other cup ties will be broadcast on TNT/HBO Max, including high-profile games like Oxford City versus Leicester City on Friday, November 6, and Peterborough United taking on Reading on Saturday, November 7. This year’s FA Cup promises to deliver drama and excitement, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the outcomes of these intriguing matchups.