Class of 92’s Salford host Notts County in FA Cup first round

“Notts County will obviously start as favourites, but it’s the FA Cup and anything can happen.”

Ammies battling well above their weight

Salford may be in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, three tiers below League Two side County, but due to their new investment have shown remarkable progress.

Since being taken over, the Ammies – as they are nicknamed – were crowned Division One North champions and are looking good in fourth place this season after 15 fixtures, with three and four games in hand on those above.

Now managed by (spoiler alert) Anthony Johnson and Bernard Morley, after Phil Power’s sacking, Salford reached this FA Cup first round after beating National League (fifth tier) side Southport.

Ex-man Utd player Webber to lead the line

Their main men in attack have been veterans and former higher league duo Gareth Seddon and Danny Webber, the former of which heavily featured in the first episode of the Class of 92: Out of Their League documentary.

Former Conference club striker Seddon looks unlikely to feature, but ex-Man Utd forward Webber is a tempting 9/4 chance to score anytime. Manchester City academy graduate James Poole is also at the same price.

For Notts County, meanwhile, they have not enjoyed their season as much so far, as they sit 15th in their division following relegation from League One last term, but are on a run of four matches without defeat.

They beat play-off occupiers Portsmouth last time out 2-1, and are 11/4 to inflict that scoreline on Salford too.

Familiar faces in force for County

The Magpies have a number of familiar names in their team, with the Salford owners’ former Red Devils teammates Alan Smith and Roy Carroll the most high profile.

Smith is a deep-lying midfielder these days, but is 5/1 to find his old striking instincts and net anytime. Ex-Sunderland forward Jon Stead (6/5) and Newcastle United graduate Adam Campbell (6/4) are also amongst their ranks.

Liam Noble and Izale McLeod have been Notts County’s top scorers this term, though, and are respective 7/4 and even-money shouts.

A draw at 11/4, which would mean a replay, is a tempting bet to take for this clash, with Salford likely to battle above their weight given the occasion.

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Coral’s top tip: With Alan Smith back against his former Man Utd teammates, back him at 5/1 to net anytime