Hamlet in the hat for FA Trophy draw

After Saturday's thrilling last gasp win over Vanarama National League South Margate FC, Dulwich Hamlet will learn their next opponents later today.

When Ashley Carew's stoppage time spot kick found the back of the net to break an eerie hush that had engulfed Champion Hill, it marked Dulwich Hamlet's best run in the FA Trophy for more than a decade. Ironically it had been Margate that ended that run at the Third Round stage back in the 2002-2003.

Now, with the 24 Vanarama National League sides entering the competition, the opportunity is there for Gavin Rose's men to test themselves against the very best that Non League Football has to offer.

Though the draw is still split on a North-South basis, Dulwich Hamlet could find themselves facing opposition from as far afield as Truro City or Torquay, perhaps even Forest Green Rovers. Also in the hat are National League leaders Cheltenham Town which brings to mind one of the most famous Dulwich away victories when two rapidfire goals after half time ensured progress back in 1996.

The draw is scheduled to take place around lunchtime today with full details posted via the usual channels as soon as it is made available. Ties are scheduled to take place on the weekend of Saturday 12th December.