Crowborough Athletic vs Ashford United - FA Trophy

There is a notable edge to this FA Trophy fixture. When Crowborough Athletic meet Ashford United at the home ground on August 29, 2026, both will sense an opportunity to land a telling blow. Jorge Salinas is of interest to Manchester United(Image: 2024 Soccrates Images B.V.) United are one of several Premier League clubs weighing up whether to meet Bologna’s €25m (£21.7m) valuation for Jhon Lucumi, according to Corriere di Bologna.

Crowborough Athletic head into the contest positioned 125th in the FA Trophy standings, while Ashford United arrive sitting 9th. The hosts will hope that the the home ground crowd can inspire a performance, whatever the numbers suggest. The visitors will travel in the hope that a change of scene can spark a turnaround, whatever the form book says. Carrick spoke to the media before his captain was seen limping, but did explain why he didn't take him off despite the commanding position his team were in.

The tactical subplot is compelling: Crowborough Athletic favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while Ashford United are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. And his efficiency in possession will be helped by those whom he now shares a dressing room with, allowing a more progressive midfielder to develop akin to City's style.

Star players on both sides will be eager to make their mark, and the individual duels across the pitch could go a long way to deciding the outcome. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Finding a versatile defender, in the mould of James Justin, who can play both left and right-back, is also on Leeds' list.

Predictions are tricky when the sides are this evenly matched, and small margins — a moment of quality, a slice of luck — could decide it either way. Given the balance of the numbers, Ashford United look capable of springing a surprise on the road — a 1-2 away victory is a distinct possibility. More than just three points is on the line at the home ground — this is a fixture that could shape the narrative of both clubs' seasons. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters says a verdict on the alleged charges against Manchester City "has taken longer than expected".