AFC Rushden & Diamonds will make their historic first-round debut in the FA Cup this weekend when they travel to face League One side Burton Albion. However, the eighth-tier phoenix club faces a monumental task at the Pirelli Stadium after rising from the ashes of the original team that folded in 2011. Meanwhile, approximately 2,000 travelling supporters will make the journey to support the non-league side as they chase a major cup upset. Later, manager Elliot Sandy bolstered his squad for the occasion by convincing veteran striker Billy Sharp to come out of retirement.
- AFC Rushden & Diamonds reached the first round proper after winning six qualifying matches from the extra preliminary round.
- Veteran striker Billy Sharp returned from retirement to sign for the club and chase his landmark 300th career goal.
- Chairman Rob Usher confirmed that the club has organised six coaches at cost price to transport fans to east Staffordshire.
- The winners of Saturday’s fixture will collect £47,750 from the Football Association prize fund.
Road to the FA Cup First Round
As a result of their incredible journey, AFC Rushden & Diamonds have fought through six rounds of the competition. Earlier, they recorded a 5-0 victory against Kimberley Miners Welfare on August 8 to kick off their campaign. Because of these wins, they secured victories over Long Eaton United, Desborough Town, Peterborough Sports, Braintree Town, and Morecambe.
Meanwhile, the club has already earned £23,194 from the FA’s prize fund during this qualifying run. Therefore, reaching this stage provides a massive financial boost alongside the unforgettable memories for the loyal supporters. Also, the travelling faithful remain proud of the incredible resilience shown by everyone involved with the community-owned club.
Billy Sharp Comes Out of Retirement
In addition to their remarkable cup run, the club secured the sensational return of Billy Sharp for the fixture. Previously, the Championship’s all-time record goalscorer started his professional career on loan at the original Rushden & Diamonds in 2005. Because of that connection, the 40-year-old forward answered the call to help fill in for the suspended James Clifton.
Later, Sharp admitted that returning to the club felt completely right after manager Elliot Sandy sent him a message. Earlier, he discussed how much the Northamptonshire side meant to his early development as a professional footballer. Now, the veteran striker hopes to score his 300th career goal while helping the underdogs pull off a stunning upset.
Keep browsing Sporting Avenue to get more interesting news from the world of sports. You can follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to get the notifications instantly.
