FA Trophy Quarter-Finals Draw Reveals Four Open‑Door Showdowns

Xander MacIntyre

Quarter‑Final Matchups Set for March 1

The latest draw for the FA Trophy quarter-finals was announced today, lining up four ties that could reshape the rest of the season’s cup narrative. With the top six clubs from the National League already knocked out, the pathway to Wembley looks wider than it has been in years, giving lower‑league sides a genuine shot at the trophy.

Oxford City, who pulled off a stunning upset against Forest Green Rovers in the previous round, will host three‑time winners Woking at the Meadowbank Stadium. The match pits a Northern Premier side against a club steeped in Trophy history, and many fans expect a fierce battle for the bragging rights of “giant‑killer”.

Rochdale and Altrincham, two clubs separated by only a few miles, are slated to clash in what is being billed as a local derby. The proximity adds extra heat to an already competitive fixture, and both sides have hinted that a win could be the catalyst for a deeper cup run.

Steve Morison, a name almost synonymous with the FA Trophy after several personal triumphs, will lead Sutton United onto their home ground to meet Spennymoor Town. Morison’s experience in knockout football could prove decisive, especially as Sutton looks to add another chapter to its recent cup resurgence.

The final pairing sees Aldershot Town traveling to Sittingbourne. While Aldershot are the higher‑division side, Sittingbourne earned respect by eliminating Southend United earlier in the competition, so an upset is well within the realm of possibility.

Financial Stakes and What’s at Play

Beyond bragging rights, the quarter‑finals carry significant monetary incentives. Victorious clubs will pocket £7,500, while the defeated side is guaranteed £2,000. For many non‑league outfits, those figures can cover travel costs, player wages, and even infrastructure upgrades.

All four fixtures are scheduled for Saturday 1 March, with kickoff times staggered to maximise TV coverage and allow fans to catch multiple games. The winners will move on to the semi‑finals, which are expected to be held at neutral venues, setting the stage for a Wembley showdown later in the spring.

• Oxford City vs Woking – home advantage for the underdogs.
• Rochdale vs Altrincham – a derby that could spark a local rivalry renaissance.
• Sutton United vs Spennymoor Town – experience versus momentum.
• Aldershot Town vs Sittingbourne – a test of depth against cup‑giant killing.

Supporters across the country are already planning travel routes, with many hoping to witness at least one of these dramatic encounters live. As the clubs prepare, the common thread is clear: everyone wants a shot at the historic FA Trophy, and the quarter‑finals could very well decide who gets to lift it at Wembley.