The first home fixture of the season sees Rusthall take on Knaphill in the Extra Preliminary Round of the Emirates FA Cup on Saturday afternoon. With The Rustics just 14 wins away from FA Cup glory, spirits will no doubt be high amongst a squad looking to bounce back following opening day defeat at Snodland Town.
Knaphill will present unfamiliar opposition, playing as they do in the Combined Counties Premier Division South. Knaphill are currently in second place having won their opening game 1-0 against Godalming Town who featured former Rustic Jonathan Miller-Annor in their ranks, and beating Chipstead on Tuesday evening with two late goals, including a 94th minute winner to claim a 2-1 win.
Knaphill enjoyed a successful season last time round but found themselves finishing in the dreaded 6th place and therefore just missing out on the playoffs- a late season dip in form and a three-point deduction not helping in their quest for promotion. Their best FA Cup run came in 2023-24 where they reached the Second Qualifying Round, something Rusthall would be looking to do for the first time. The Rustics’ best run came the season before where they beat Loxwood and Ramsgate before losing on the road to Phoenix Sports in the First Qualifying Round.
Jimmy Anderson will be hoping Yassin Fares is able to return to the squad having missed last week’s defeat- his preseason form is something all in green and white will hope he can replicate. Christian Lawal made an impressive competitive debut last week and will once again be looking to make things tick in the middle of the park. The ever-reliable Frank Griffin stepped in to defence last week and whether he plays there again, or reverts back to his usual midfield berth, he will ensure not much gets through to threaten Serine Sanneh in goal. There will no doubt be some attacking players looking to make a bit more of an impact than they did last week- a sunny afternoon at Jockey Farm, with the fans right behind them all the way, and the pitch looking fantastic in spite of the recent weather, surely offers the best chance of success.
There’s nothing quite like an FA Cup fixture at Jockey Farm so do come along and support your local non-league team.

- Simon Howe

Reminder - Season Tickets do not apply to FA Cup Fixtures

When - Saturday 8th August, KO 3pm, Turnstiles open from 1pm
Where - The Jockey Farm Stadium
How much? - Adults £10, Conc £6, U16's £2

Any questions or queries, please email club@rusthallfc.com