Chances for Non-League teams in the FA Cup

The draw for the FA Cup second round took place recently, with teams up and down the country harbouring hopes of reaching the next stage of what is the most historic cup competition in world football.
While those involved in the draw are unlikely to threaten holders Manchester City and the rest of the major hitters in the English game, reaching the third round and beyond can bring a range of rewards, including a significant financial boost. So, for the Non-League teams still left in this season’s FA Cup, what are their chances of making further inroads into the tournament?
There is perhaps only one place to start, with Maldon & Tiptree having been rewarded with a home tie against either Grimsby Town or Newport County following their win over Leyton Orient in the first round proper.
Flying high in the Isthmian League North, Maldon & Tiptree scored two second half goals in order to see off their League Two opponents, with manager Wayne Brown undoubtedly already preparing his side for another giant-killing in Round Two.
Elsewhere, the Third Round draw is guaranteed to see at least one Non-League team, with Isthmian League Premier Division side Kingstonian currently looking forward to a home tie against National League AFC Fylde.
Kingstonian produced a fantastic performance in thrashing League Two Macclesfield Town on the road in the last round and will be quietly confident of causing another upset.
Hayden Bird’s side are unlikely to receive the backing from many punters when it comes to odds on reaching the latter stages, with Manchester City currently being the favourites (10/3) with bookmaker Bet365 to lift the trophy again, however the K’s will be enjoying every minute of their cup run.
Meanwhile, as the lowest ranked team left in the competition, Chichester City will be looking to take full advantage of their bye into the second round proper, where they will take on either Tranmere Rovers or Wycombe Wanderers.
Wycombe are the 4/5 favourites to overcome their League One rivals when they meet on Wednesday evening, a win which would set up a meeting with Chichester, who currently sit mid-table in the Isthmian South East Division.
With clubs reaching the Third Round receiving over £50,000 in prize money, the stakes are certainly high for those involved, with the FA Cup being famous for producing shock results.
The second round is almost certain not to disappoint, with the likes of Eastleigh, Stourbridge and Darlington hoping to come out on top in their First Round replays this week.