FOOTBALL clubs across the country are rubbing their hands in anticipation of the FA Cup preliminary round this weekend. Gate receipts in the competition are shared equally between the home and away sides and there is also prize money at stake. St Ives Tow

FOOTBALL clubs across the country are rubbing their hands in anticipation of the FA Cup preliminary round this weekend.

Gate receipts in the competition are shared equally between the home and away sides and there is also prize money at stake.

St Ives Town and St Neots Town have already pocketed £500 after victories in the extra preliminary round and could earn another £1,000 with victories on Saturday.

St Ives travel to Suffolk to play Ridgeons League Cornard United while St Neots have a tough-looking home fixture with Brackley Town of the Southern League Division One.

St Ives have an extra incentive to qualify for the next round as they are in line to travel to Borehamwood.

St Ives chairman Neville Nania said: "If we can get past Cornard then it'll be a real money-spinner to go to Boreham Wood who average around 250 spectators, sometimes more.

"The FA Cup is a great source of income for non-league clubs and hopefully we can extend our winning run at the weekend."

St Neots claimed a 2-1 victory at Sawbridgeworth to reach the preliminary round and will travel to Ipswich Wanderers or Tiptree United if they win.

St Neots chairman Bob Page said: "There's no doubt you feel an extra buzz on FA Cup days. It will be a very tough match for us and Brackley play at a high standard, but if we're right on our game we'll have a chance.

"They've just signed a sponsorship deal that is bringing them £16,000 a month so it gives you some indication of what we're going to be up against!

"Having said that we've got nothing to lose so we can go out there and play freely. Everyone knows about the traditions of giantkilling in the FA Cup and it would be fantastic to add our name to that list.