Here’s our 8-match preview of the early FA Cup qualifiers for the 2026/27 English FA Cup.

Bury vs Harrogate Town
Bury have struck 15 goals across their three qualifying victories, making Gigg Lane an enticing venue for an upset. Harrogate arrive with higher-league pedigree, but the hosts have momentum and home support. A speculative Bury win offers standout value.

AFC Rushden & Diamonds vs Morecambe
Rushden & Diamonds beat Braintree Town 2-1 in the previous round and then edged an eight-goal league thriller 5-3 at Long Eaton. Morecambe dispatched Darlington 3-0, but the Diamonds’ scoring form gives an upset genuine appeal at a big price.

Boston United vs Scunthorpe United
Neither National League side has found much consistency: Boston have gone winless in their last five league fixtures, while Scunthorpe have lost four of five. Boston won 6-3 at Scunthorpe in February and have home advantage in a difficult-to-call cup tie.

FC Halifax Town vs South Shields
Halifax beat Gateshead 4-1 and Solihull Moors 2-0 in their two latest league matches, then scored four against Stoke’s reserves in midweek. South Shields have been competitive, but Halifax’s recent attacking returns and home advantage point towards a narrow victory.

Dover Athletic vs Dorking Wanderers
These sides drew 1-1 at Crabble last Saturday, Jack Bates equalising in stoppage time. Dover are unbeaten in six across all competitions, while Dorking have attacking threat through Alfie Rutherford. The rematch could be tight, but Dover’s unbeaten run encourages a home-upset punt.

Wealdstone vs Worthing
Worthing won the league meeting 1-0 in August and have reportedly collected five wins and a draw from their last six matches. Wealdstone have struggled for consistency this season. The visitors’ momentum makes an away win appealing in this all-National League tie.

Sutton United vs Truro City
Truro have beaten Maidstone and Braintree away in their last three league outings, drawing the other at Farnham. Sutton’s latest five league results contain three draws and two defeats. With visitors in better form, the Cornish side appeal at generous away odds.

Sholing vs SE Dons
SE Dons have won five of their six qualifying ties, including a 5-1 victory at Weymouth, scoring 19 goals in total. Sholing beat Ebbsfleet 2-1 in round three and have their own fairytale in sight. Back the visiting Dons to keep their adventure alive.