Much earlier in the season than would usually be the case, Sutton compete in the 4th qualifying round of the FA Cup tomorrow, featuring on one of the round’s outstanding ties as Bromley make the short trip across South London. Their last FA Cup visit in September 2012 saw Bromley win 1-0, and the last meeting between the sides at this stage in October 1996, at Hayes Lane, also saw the only goal go to the Kent side, although a first round home defeat against Enfield meant the joy was short lived. U’s however, will remember with fondness a third qualifying round replay success at Hayes Lane in October 1987 which continued a run that ended against Middlesbrough in the third round.

Neither side has played a full five league games yet, both having blank Saturday’s due to Macclesfield’s demise, and Bromley also missing last week’s trip to Altrincham due to the home side’s Covid outbreak. The three league games they have played have seen a convincing home win against Dover, defeat to high flying Torquay at Hayes Lane thanks to a last minute penalty, and a goalless draw on the long midweek trip to Hartlepool.

Sutton suffered defeat for the first time against Notts County, conceding the only goal of the game in the 94th minute, but the ten day break before the FA Cup game has seen a few knocks shaken off and both Ben Goodliffe and Louis John could be fit to play a part against Bromley.

One important change in the FA Cup this season is that, if the scores are level after 90 minutes there won’t be a replay, as there was last seasons when U’s went out at Billericay following Alan Julian’s last gasp goal in the first game, but the game will go straight to penalties – there will not even be extra time.

The game is being live streamed, and passes, priced £9.50, can be bought here. Please note that, as it is a cup tie, season ticket holders are required to buy a pass to watch the game, and due to FA regulations the live stream will not be available to any viewers outside the UK.

We will also have free audio commentary on our Mixlr site.