The Rise of Underdogs: Cray Valley Paper Mills Make History in FA Cup

Sport Football: FA Cup first round draw in full

By George Flood

15 October 2023

Cray Valley Paper Mills FC, an eighth-tier non-league club from south-east London, has drawn a dream tie in the FA Cup first round proper against fellow local side Charlton Athletic. The club, currently competing in the Isthmian League South East Division, has qualified for the competition proper for only the second time in its history. Their journey to the first round included wins over Lordswood, Uxbridge, Northwood, Carshalton Athletic, and Enfield Town.

The upcoming match between Cray Valley and Charlton at The Valley in November holds special significance as it could be dubbed the Kevin Lisbie derby. Lisbie, a former Jamaican striker, spent 11 years at Charlton from 1996 to 2007 before joining Cray Valley for the last four years of his career. Lisbie’s son, Kyrell, currently plays for Cray Valley and scored twice in their 5-2 victory over Enfield in the fourth qualifying round.

The Magic of the FA Cup

The FA Cup, with its long and storied history, is often celebrated for providing underdogs with the opportunity to make a name for themselves and defy the odds. Cray Valley Paper Mills’ progression to the first round proper is a prime example of this. As an eighth-tier club, they have been pitted against Charlton, a team with a rich footballing tradition.

The allure of the FA Cup lies in its ability to transform small, local clubs into giants for a day. It showcases the beauty of football and the possibility of upsets, which captivates fans and ignites the collective imagination of the nation.

Philosophical Discussion: The Power of Dreams

The draw between Cray Valley Paper Mills and Charlton Athletic embodies the power of dreams. It is a reminder that in the world of sport, anything is possible. Just as Cray Valley has defied expectations to reach the first round proper, individuals and teams in any domain can overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.

Dreams fuel ambition and provide inspiration. They drive athletes to push their limits, teams to work together, and fans to believe in the power of their support. The FA Cup draws attention to this universal human quality, reminding us that dreams should never be dismissed or diminished, as they possess the power to shape our lives and create extraordinary moments.

Editorial: Celebrating the Underdogs

The FA Cup first round draw serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of underdog stories. While the Premier League and other top-tier competitions often dominate the headlines, it is the magic of the FA Cup that captures the imagination and captivates fans. The tournament allows smaller clubs to shine on a national stage and showcases the depth and diversity of English football.

Cray Valley Paper Mills’ journey to the first round proper exemplifies the spirit of the competition. Their story is a testament to dedication, resilience, and the power of hope. As this south-east London derby unfolds at The Valley, football fans across the country will be cheering for the underdogs, hoping for a memorable upset that will be etched into the annals of FA Cup history.

Advice to Cray Valley Paper Mills

As Cray Valley prepares for their showdown against Charlton, they should embrace the moment and cherish the opportunity that lies before them. This is a chance to showcase their talent, demonstrate their fighting spirit, and leave a lasting impression on fans and observers alike.

While the odds are stacked against them, Cray Valley should draw inspiration from their journey thus far. They have already proven that they have what it takes to compete with higher-level teams. Confidence and belief will be essential in their quest to cause an upset. They should remember that football is not only measured by trophies and accolades but also by the passion and heart that is displayed on the pitch.

Regardless of the outcome, Cray Valley Paper Mills have already achieved something remarkable. Their presence in the first round proper is a validation of their hard work and dedication, and it serves as a reminder that with determination and perseverance, dreams can become reality.

In conclusion, the FA Cup first round draw has set the stage for an exciting and potentially historic clash between Cray Valley Paper Mills and Charlton Athletic. This matchup embodies the spirit of the competition, celebrating the underdogs and the power of dreams. As the teams prepare to face off, the nation eagerly awaits a thrilling contest that will capture the imagination of football fans across the country.