Early Start for FA and League Cups

August may only just be upon us but both the FA Cup and League Cup will be getting going over the next week or so.

For many non-league sides, this weekend's FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round ties will be their first competitive action of the season, not ideal in terms of preparation but, as usual, the first step on the road to Wembley will be hard-fought and progress through to the next round much-prized.

A full list of all of the matches can be found on the FA website so please do try and get to a game near you.

In the League Cup, meanwhile, which I may get round to calling the 'EFL Cup' at some point although I'm not a huge fan of the re-branding exercise that has been done for the new season, all of the following matches will cost no more than £10 for Adults and all are scheduled for a 7:45pm kick-off on Tuesday 9th August.

Derby County provide an attractive first trip back in the competition for Grimsby Town and the iPro Stadium game is priced at £10 for Adult non-season ticket holders (£7 for season ticket holders) with various reductions for seniors and juniors.

There is a Lancashire derby at Boundary Park where Oldham Athletic take on their fellow Latics, Wigan. Prices have been set at £10 Adults, £5 for Over-65's and Under-18's and £2 for accompanied Under-12's.

Hartlepool United visit Preston North End with all tickets for the Deepdale clash priced at £10 for those 17 and above and just £1 for those 16 and under.

Reading host Plymouth and, in keeping with their policy over recent seasons, the Royals have significantly reduced prices. Matchday admission is a maximum of £10 but advance adult tickets are £7 and advance prices for those 17 and under are just £1. 

Walsall v Yeovil is £10 Adults, £5 Over-60's and £5 Under-18's.

Bramall Lane season ticket holders can watch Sheffield United take on Crewe Alexandra for free with other prices set at £10 Adults, £5 Concessions and £1 Under-18's.