Stockport County celebrating after winning 2nd round tie
Photo credit: Stockport County

National League side Stockport County host Premier League opposition West Ham United in the hope they cause an upset against the Hammers in the third round.

Stockport County currently sit fourth in the National League after 14 games played and have enjoyed their run to the third round. The Hatters were originally knocked out by Chesterfield in the fourth qualifying round, only for the FA to order a replay after the victors were found to have fielded an ineligible player. Stockport took full advantage, winning 4-0.

County then won 2-1 at League One side Rochdale before edging National League rivals Yeovil Town 3-2 in extra-time to reach the third round for the first time since 2007. It will be the third time the two clubs have played one another in the FA Cup. Stockport won a third-round replay 1-0 at Edgeley Park in January 1935, while the Hammers won a fourth-round tie at the Boleyn Ground in January 1958.

Overall, the two clubs have met 14 times, with Stockport holding the all-time edge with seven wins to four, with three draws. Stockport boss Jim Gannon has been at the club since 2006 and has managed over 500 games for Stockport with the most recent success being promotion as Vanarama National League North champions in the 2018/19 season.

To defeat Premier League opposition, Stockport will need to be on top form. West Ham currently sits in 10th, three points behind Manchester City in fifth. West Ham have had a good season under David Moyes so far picking up victories against the likes of Leicester, Aston Villa and strugglers Sheffield Utd. They also picked up a point against Man City earlier in the season.

David Moyes is likely to rotate and give younger players an opportunity however will be keen to avoid risking a cup upset. West Ham come into the fixture fresh from a 1-0 win against Everton and go into this game with full confidence. The Hammers’ trophy cabinet consists of three FA Cup trophies over the duration of the club’s history and David Moyes may see this as an opportunity to bring silverware to the London Stadium.

With Stockport as the underdogs, they will see this as an opportunity to play with more freedom. The teams play Monday evening with the game being broadcasted on BT Sport. This is also another added incentive for Stockport as TV revenue will be crucial to the club’s finances this season with the impact of Covid-19.