Its the day that so many clubs between Steps 3 and 7 look forward to most in the pre-season period, the day that The FA release the initial round draws for the Emirates FA Cup, the Buildbase FA Trophy and the Buildbase FA Vase. For the Magpies, the former of these would give them their 2017/18 season opening fixture on Saturday 5 August.
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As it happens the season will begin at home as the draw in the world's most famous club cup competition sees Holmesdale FC of the Southern Counties East League. Currently in the second tier of that league (Step 6) and playing their games in Bromley, their origins are in South Norwood not far from Selhurst Park, home of Crystal Palace FC. They finished 6th (of 19) in that division last season with ambitions to go further this season, so they will prove to be a stern test first up.
​Should the Magpies be successful they would then travel 2 weeks later to the winner of the tie between Epsom & Ewell (who are forthcoming friendly opponents) and Banstead Athletic.

The draw for the Buildbase FA Vase also provided opposition from the SCEFL in the shape of Premier Division (step 5) Sheppey United, who the Magpies will make the trip to on Saturday 9 September. With both sides finishing 6th in their respective divisions last season, this promises to be a close contest.
​Whilst the Sheppey's history began as far back as 1890, recent years have seen a degree of tribulation although they now appear to be settled and are about to commence their 5th season at Holm Park, which all are looking forward to visiting in two months' time.