At last we come to the competition and round that kick started my gambling habit. Not got much chance to look through thoroughly tonight but here's a few initial thoughts. Have to say I was quite disappointed with the draw.
17 Dec-15:00 Accrington Stanley v Altrincham 1.44 3.60 6.50 - These two sides don't like each other so with pride at stake I favour the better team which is clearly Accrington. Alty become playable for me closer to 8/1.
17 Dec-15:00 AFC Wimbledon v St Albans City 2.50 3.20 2.40 - St.Albans away to poorer opposition has worked well for me so far this season. Difficult to judge if AFC Dons will go for it, and whether an intimidating home atmosphere may play a part.
17 Dec-15:00 Burton Albion v Worksop 1.57 3.50 5.00 - Burton will they care given their FA Cup run? They do have a good record in this competition mind.
17 Dec-15:00 Canvey Island v Kingstonian 1.33 4.00 8.00 - If Kingstonian aren't all a bunch of fat blokes who can't kick a ball I'd say lay Canvey.
17 Dec-15:00 Dag & Red v Thurrock 1.72 3.40 4.00 - It's got to be Thurrock, they're on a decent run in the conf south. Daggers are in relative turmoil at the moment though they've just signed for Thurrock goal getter Cliff Akurang.
17 Dec-15:00 Dorchester Town v Cambridge Utd 2.60 3.40 2.25 - Was hoping for longer on Dorchester
17 Dec-15:00 Halesowen v Tamworth 4.00 3.40 1.72 - Tamworth, (see Burton)
17 Dec-15:00 Halifax v Southport 1.44 3.60 6.50 - Halifax had a great home record this time last season and got done by Northwich (pre Steve Burr). Southport are equally as bad as Northwich were last season so it might be worth a look.
17 Dec-15:00 Kidderminster v Scarborough 2.10 3.20 3.00 - Scarborough for me, relegated league teams from experience rarely give a toss about the trophy. Also add on to that the fact that Scarborough are improving and Kidderminster are in freefall.
17 Dec-15:00 Weymouth v Forest Green 1.50 3.60 5.50 Weymouth - 8/11 with
Sky bet, hell yeah!
17 Dec-15:00 York v Northwich 2.10 3.20 3.00 - I like Northwich to beat a totally out of sorts York. The Vics have plenty to prove to Conference sides and have already won comfortably at fortress Morecambe this season.
One other thing to perhaps check out is the format of the FA Trophy as high flying conference teams will not want the inconvienience of fixture congestion later in the season.