The FA Cup sponsored by E.ON
Third Round Qualifying
Saturday 14 October 2006
Winning clubs will receive £5,000

Northern League chairman Mike Amos had a tricky choice deciding which of the three teams in his division to watch in the FA Cup this weekend - with a tasty fish and chip supper proving the ultimate factor!

Amos could have seen Durham City take on Barrow or Whitley Bay play Blyth Spartans, but will instead travel with Newcastle Benfield for their Third Qualifying Round tie against Guiseley.

But he is delighted that three teams from his league - which sits at Level Nine in the English pyramid system - have gone so far in the tournament, with Durham and Whitley Bay actually starting all the way back in the Extra Preliminary round.

"It's a big boost and they have all done tremendously well," said a proud Amos. "Back in the old days, the Northern League could expect as many as three teams in the First Round.

"But times have changed a great deal with Extra Preliminary and Preliminary rounds added, so to get these teams in the Third Qualifying Round is excellent.

"Durham are an ambitious club and are looking to gain promotion to the Unibond League this season, while Whitley and Benfield are good sides as well.

"I actually believe Benfield have the best chance of causing an upset in the competition. They are a very good side."

With a trio of clubs looking to progress Amos had his pick of games, but admits his final decision was based on a bit more than the action on the pitch.

"I'm going to Guisley because there is a very famous fish and chip shop there," he explained. "I plan to have some before the game. It's one of the advantages of the job really, and I'm sure the whole trip will be excellent."