Source: The FA
Big Trophy crowd expected as FC United host Altrincham.
FC United of Manchester have a chance to claim the scalp of a club steeped in non-League tradition when they face Altrincham in The FA Trophy on Sunday, according to their manager Karl Marginson.
One of the most intriguing Third RoundQualifying ties this weekend sees the meeting of two clubs separated by just ten miles - but poles apart when it comes to their history.
Altrincham - now playing in the Conference North - were formed in 1891 and boast a proud 120-year tradition that has featured them lifting The FA Trophy on two occasions and going as far as The FA Cup Fourth Round.
In contrast, FC United were born as recently as 2005 and have since enjoyed a steady rise through the non-League pyramid to the Northern Premier Division - one tier below their opponents.
"Altrincham, especially from the northern area, are one of the most famous non-League teams going and have a great heritage," Marginson told TheFA.com.
"We've only been going six years and having these games and these situations is really enjoyable - it's a great opportunity for everyone at the club.
"They are going to be favourites because they are in a higher league but we will look to compete and make sure the lads go out there and enjoy the occasion.
"It's a fantastic competition for non-League clubs and presents a real chance to play at Wembley, last year we had the great FA Cup run so let's hope for a repeat of that."
While awaiting the planning permission required to build their own stadium, FC United play their home games at Bury's Gigg Lane.
And, with near neighbours Manchester United playing on Saturday and Manchester City away at Liverpool on Sunday, Marginson is expecting a big crowd.
"There is a lot of local interest in the North-West and I would imagine there will be a few down there with it being on the Sunday," he added.
"Altrincham will bring a good few fans, our supporters will turn out in their numbers and you will get members of the public who have nothing else to do with their Sunday.
"The fans will have a bit of banter because it is a local derby and that will only add to the occasion. I'm sure it's going to be a great spectacle for everyone."
FC United Of Manchester v Altrincham
The FA Carlsberg Trophy
Third Round Qualifying
3pm, Sunday 27 November
Gigg Lane, Bury FC
Winning clubs receive £4000 from The FA's prize fund
By Giuseppi Muro - Friday, 25 November, 2011
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