Northampton vs Kettering – A Historic FA Cup Clash Awaits Fans After 35 Years
For the first time in 35 years, Northampton Town and Kettering Town are set to face off in a thrilling FA Cup first-round tie. This local derby, set to take place at Sixfields Stadium, has fans eagerly anticipating a rare meeting between these two Northamptonshire clubs. With kickoff scheduled for 5:30 p.m. GMT, both clubs have urged supporters to arrive early to help ensure a smooth matchday experience.
The anticipation around this match has been building for weeks. Northampton Town, a League One side, will host non-league Kettering Town in a contest that many are calling historic. It's the first competitive encounter between the two since their last FA Cup showdown in 1989, where Northampton secured a narrow 1-0 victory at Kettering’s former Rockingham Road ground. That game lives on in the memory of fans, adding extra emotion to this reunion on the pitch.
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Given the heightened interest, Northampton Town has recommended that fans arrive early. Turnstiles will open at 4:00 p.m., allowing fans to settle in, enjoy the pre-match atmosphere, and avoid any last-minute rush. Fans have also been advised that one of the regular parking areas, the Duston Mill car park, will not be accessible due to a fireworks event, but the north gravel car park at the stadium remains open.
In addition to the game itself, Northampton Town will be holding its annual service of remembrance at the Walter Tull memorial. This ceremony, which begins at 4:30 p.m., will honor Walter Tull, the former footballer and war hero who remains a celebrated figure in the club’s history. A period of silence will follow inside the stadium, creating a respectful moment of reflection before the excitement of the match begins.
The game is set to be broadcast live on BBC iPlayer and BBC Two, giving fans unable to attend a chance to witness this rare encounter. For local football enthusiasts, this isn’t just a game; it’s a showcase of county pride and a testament to the enduring spirit of both clubs. The buildup has been electric, with former players and fans alike sharing their memories and expressing excitement for this special day in Northamptonshire football.
As the teams prepare to take the field, the community feels the weight of this historic fixture. Both Northampton and Kettering will bring their best, driven by pride and rivalry, with the added excitement of playing under the lights in front of national audiences. For local fans, this game is much more than just another FA Cup tie—it’s a renewal of a cherished rivalry, a celebration of community, and a chance to witness history in the making.
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