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Wrexham Take on Bury in FA Cup First-Round Drama

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, December 8th 2025 at 15:00 GMT by Wales Online

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FA Cup 2024‑25: Full First‑Round Draw Revealed – A Summary of the Biggest Matchups and the Stakes Ahead

On Thursday night, the historic FA Cup’s first‑round proper draw was unveiled on television and online, sending shockwaves through the footballing world and delighting fans across England and Wales. The 80‑team field—comprising 48 clubs from the third and fourth tiers of the English league system (League One and League Two), 16 from the National League, and 16 from the fifth‑tier pyramid (Conference North and South)—has finally been pitted against one another in a classic “David vs. Goliath” format. Below is a comprehensive rundown of the key fixtures, notable clashes, and the broader context of the draw.

The Draw Process

The draw took place at the iconic FA Cup headquarters in Manchester, streamed live on BT Sport’s FA Cup Live and the FA’s official YouTube channel. The format—seeded clubs drawn against unseeded opponents—ensured that the top teams from the lower tiers would face their more modest counterparts, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans of the non‑leagues.

For those interested in watching the official coverage again, the full replay is available on the FA’s archive page: [ FA Cup Live – First‑Round Draw ]. The commentary team, featuring former professional players, added color and context to each pairing as the names were announced.

Highlights and Shockers

1. Wrexham vs. Bury
The most talked‑about matchup involved the newly promoted Championship side Wrexham, who are currently managed by the legendary Paul Evans (see his interview on Wrexham’s official club site: [ Wrexham FC ]). They will face National League side Bury, a team that famously survived a financial collapse in 2019. Fans anticipate a classic “one‑hitter” encounter as Wrexham aim to showcase their new squad’s potential against a side known for its grit.

2. Swansea City vs. Torquay United
Swansea City, still re‑establishing themselves after a period in League One, will go up against the newly promoted National League side Torquay United. This fixture is a story of resilience, as Swansea have struggled for consistency while Torquay has surged up the pyramid. For Torquay fans, it is a dream match; for Swansea, an opportunity to cement their progress.

3. Barnsley vs. Doncaster Rovers
Two former Championship heavyweights, Barnsley and Doncaster Rovers, will clash in a derby that carries historic tension. The match will be played at Oakwell (Barnsley’s home), with the venue already selling out tickets due to the rivalry’s intensity.

4. Leyton Orient vs. Forest Green Rovers
Leyton Orient, recently promoted to League One, will host Forest Green Rovers, the club that famously became the first fully carbon‑neutral football team (you can read more about their sustainability efforts on the club’s website: [ Forest Green Rovers ]). This fixture is expected to showcase not only the football but also the environmental consciousness of modern clubs.

5. Bristol Rovers vs. Dagenham & Redbridge
A long‑standing rivalry at the lower levels, Bristol Rovers will travel to Dagenham & Redbridge in a match that promises high‑energy football. The fans of both clubs have historically made the matches highly entertaining, with plenty of dramatic moments in previous FA Cup encounters.

Why the First‑Round Draw Matters

While the FA Cup is most famous for its “giant‑killer” stories—where non‑league clubs upset Premier League giants—the first‑round draw is critical for several reasons:

1. Financial Boost: The first‑round proper offers clubs a modest but important share of the prize money. For clubs like Bury and Torquay, this could mean the difference between covering travel costs and investing in a new training facility.

2. Competitive Momentum: A good start to the Cup can boost a club’s confidence and create a winning culture. Conversely, a difficult draw might test the squad’s depth early on.

3. Fan Engagement: The FA Cup has long been a catalyst for club community spirit. The excitement surrounding the draw often leads to an increase in club membership and merchandise sales. For example, after the draw, Wrexham reported a 15% increase in club ticket sales on their website: [ Wrexham Ticket Sales ].

4. Media Coverage: A high‑profile fixture such as the Wrexham‑Bury clash draws national media attention. This exposure can lead to sponsorship deals and broadcast contracts, particularly for clubs operating outside the top two tiers.

What’s Next?

The matches will take place on the first weekend of January 2025, with the majority of games scheduled for 15:00 GMT. Some of the matches, such as Wrexham vs. Bury, are already slated for television broadcast on BT Sport, ensuring that the drama of the FA Cup will reach a wide audience.

The draw also sets the stage for the second round, which will see the 40 clubs that advance from the first round joined by 24 teams from the Championship and Premier League (the latter two receiving byes). As the competition progresses, the potential for more thrilling matchups will only increase, making the FA Cup one of football’s most enduring and unpredictable tournaments.

For further coverage, including live updates and post‑match analyses, you can follow the FA Cup on the official FA website’s news section: [ FA Cup 2024‑25 Fixtures ]. You may also join the conversation on the FA Cup’s official Twitter feed for real‑time commentary: [ @TheFA ].

In conclusion, the first‑round draw has already set the tone for a season of high drama, financial opportunity, and community pride. Whether it’s a historic underdog triumph or a familiar big‑club dominance, the FA Cup continues to captivate fans, reminding us why football’s “magic” endures.