AFC Rushden & Diamonds lead four first-time qualifiers into FA Cup first round

AFC Rushden & Diamonds secured their first appearance in the FA Cup first round with a 2-1 victory over Morecambe on Saturday, joining three other clubs in reaching that stage for the first time. BBC Sport reported that Berkhamsted, Plymouth Parkway and Sholing also advanced on a significant day for non-league teams in the fourth qualifying round.

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The eighth-tier Rushden side overcame opponents from National League North, two divisions above them, to complete a run of five wins in this season's competition. Founded in 2011 following the demise of Rushden & Diamonds, the club now has a place in Monday's draw. Manager Elliot Sandy told BBC Radio Northamptonshire of his delight for supporters, volunteers, players and his coaching staff.

Berkhamsted produced another upset by recovering from behind to beat Southend United 2-1 at Roots Hall. The seventh-tier Hertfordshire club will make its first appearance in the competition's main draw alongside Plymouth Parkway and Sholing, who play at the same level. Sholing defeated SE Dons 2-0, while Wimborne Town beat Chelmsford City 1-0 to reach the first round for the first time since 1982.

Tadley Calleva have not yet qualified, but the ninth-tier Hampshire team earned a place in the draw by twice coming from behind to hold National League club Aldershot Town 2-2. Supported by 883 travelling fans, they secured a home replay on Tuesday. They will be the lowest-ranked club represented when the draw takes place, with their place in the first round still to be decided.

Several other lower-league teams also extended their campaigns. Stafford Rangers, Bury, Leatherhead, Gloucester City and Chesham United all drew against National League opponents and will contest replays on Tuesday. Bury's televised 1-1 draw with Harrogate Town brought almost 5,000 spectators to Gigg Lane. Guiseley advanced outright with a 3-0 victory at Leiston, adding to the seventh-tier contingent already through.

Saturday's winners each earned £9,375 in prize money and could next face League One or League Two opposition. The draw is scheduled for 18:35 BST on Monday, 19 October, with former winners Martin Keown and Fara Williams conducting it. First-round matches are scheduled around the weekend of Saturday, 7 November.