United are back on the road this weekend, as they start their FA Cup journey at the 2nd qualifying stage with a trip to Bishops Cleeve.
Following a strong start to their National League South campaign, Paul Wotton’s side will undoubtedly be favourites to make progress through tomorrow, however The Gulls will be able to take absolutely nothing for granted, in what has been described as the biggest match in the Gloucestershire side’s119-year history.
Who’s the boss?
Mitres boss Paul Collicutt is enjoying his second spell at the helm, having returned to Kayte Lane four years ago.
A hugely successful first stint that lasted 12 years included two promotions and a memorable run to the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup in 2005/06, prior to his departure in April 2011.
Another lengthy spell saw Collicutt spend five-and-a-half years in charge of Evesham United before a single season as director of football at Stratford Town paved the way for his return to the club in July 2020, after previous manager Steve Cleal left to join Cinderford Town.
Player to watch
Striker Jay Malshanskyj is currently the star of the show at Bishops Cleeve, with the frontman already bagging six goals and four assists in just nine outings so far this term.
Having begun his career in the academy of Forest Green Rovers, moves to Yate, Melksham, Slimbridge and Melksham preceded the switch to Paul Collicutt’s side, where he wasted little time in making an impact.
After notching a goal on his debut in the second minute in Cleeve’s FA Cup extra preliminary round against Thornbury on August 4th 2023, his strike – timed at 7.48pm – was later discovered to be the earliest goal ever scored in the famous old competition, since in began way back in 1871!
How have they been doing?
Following a 9th-placed finish last season, The Mitres’ start to the 2024/25 Pitching In Southern League – Division One South campaign has been a bit hit & miss, with their four matches resulting in two wins and two defeats.
An opening day home defeat to Bideford wasn’t the start they would’ve wanted, nor was the midweek away defeat to Yate Town that followed.
Bishops Cleeve have certainly picked up since though, with a fie 1-0 home win over Bemerton Heath Harlequins backed up by an even more impressive 3-0 success at Malvern.
A 2-1 replay win at Laverstock & Ford saw them book their place in tomorrow’s tie, as the whole of the village’s attention turns to Kayte Lane for what promises to be a very special – but competitive – afternoon in Gloucestershire.
Ticketing & Travel Information
Bishops Cleeve have announced that this will be a ticket-only fixture, with no segregation in place. Turnstiles will be open on the day of the game from 12.30pm, whilst a matchday programme will also be available at the stadium.
Tickets can be purchased online now HERE
Prices for this match are as follows:
- Full Price – £10
- Concessions – £8
- Under 18s – £5
- Under 3s – FREE
Address: Bishops Cleeve FC, Kayte Lane, Bishops Cleeve, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. GL52 3PD
Tel: 01242 676166
Get On Board With The Torquay United Official Travel Club!
As always, the Torquay United Official Travel Club will again be running a coach on Saturday, with pick-up timings and fare prices listed below.
Gulls fans are reminded that you must be a TUTC member to travel with, with 50% of the £4 membership fee going to the club. Supporters are welcome to join the Club on board the coach. In addition to enabling the Yellow Army can cheer the lads on at every away game this season, there will also a Golden Goal competition taking place so remember to bring your loose change!
Pick-up Points
- Paignton 10.15am
- Torquay 10.30am
- Newton Abbot 10.45am
- Exeter 11.15am
Return Fare
- Adult £30
- Teen £25
- Child £20
