The FA Cup first round proper kicks off this weekend, with 31 ties scheduled for Saturday at 3pm GMT, featuring non-league clubs aiming for glory and a notable comeback for Billy Sharp.
Sharp's One-Game Return
Billy Sharp, the Championship's all-time leading scorer with 130 goals, has come out of retirement to play one game for AFC Rushden & Diamonds at Burton's Pirelli Stadium. The 76-year-old? No, the 76 refers to his shirt number? Actually, Sharp, aged 38, recently retired but has returned to the phoenix club of a former employer, where he scored his first goal while on loan in 2005, before the original club was liquidated six years later. Sharp, who also played for LA Galaxy, is seeking his 300th career goal, having left Doncaster on 299.
Macclesfield's Cup Ambitions
Macclesfield, managed by John Rooney, travel to Mansfield, hoping to repeat their historic third-round upset of Crystal Palace in January, described as the greatest shock in the competition's history. The National League North side, now with sporting director Keith Curle, a former Mansfield manager, face a Stags team led by Nigel Clough. Curle and Clough were England teammates at Euro 92.
Other Ties to Watch
Bradford City host Marine, the Merseyside club known for legendary manager Roly Howard's 33-year tenure, while Plymouth Argyle face Alvechurch, the club of former England international Alan Smith. Cray Wanderers, claiming to be London's oldest club with origins traced to 1860, take on Stockport County. Peterborough United, managed by Robbie Savage, host Reading, managed by his son Charlie, in a family reunion.
