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The best cup competition in the world is back this week, with Tamworth vs Huddersfield the first of five selected TV games for the first round of the FA Cup.
Tamworth are riding a wave at the moment having achieved back-to-back promotions. In an enthralling title race with Coalville, Andy Peak's were promoted from the Southern League Central on goal difference, with the Ravens eventually resigning from the league a year later.
The Lambs went from strength to strength and stormed to the National League North title, finishing eight points clear of heavy favourites Scunthorpe on 96 points. This sealed a memorable double promotion against the odds, with many people tipping Tamworth to struggle on their return to the National League.
However, as ever, The Lambs are exceeding expectations, sitting comfortably in 16th place eight points clear of relegation and four points off the playoffs.
Last year, they had the best defensive record in the league, conceding just 29 goals in 46 league games thanks to the exploits of legendary goalkeeper Jas Singh. This year, the step up in quality has been evident, with Tamworth already conceding 27 goals. However, 17 have come on their travels, only conceding 10 at home.
Tamworth swept past Robbie Savage's Macclesfield 4-2 in their only FA Cup game to date this season.
They have only lost twice at home this season, so Huddersfield will have to be on top form to break down a resilient Tamworth side.
Huddersfield endured a torrid 2023/2024 Championship season, finishing 23rd and six points from safety. Michael Duff, who has experience at this level with Cheltenham and Barnsley, was appointed as the new manager and the Terriers have started well so far.
They currently sit outside the playoff places by just one point after three wins and one draw in their last four games, conceding just one goal in the process. While Duff's style of play is not the most pleasing on the eye, it is effective, with a 0-0 draw at high-flying Wrexham evidence of the Terriers gritty style of play.
57 places separate the sides, so Huddersfield are favourites, priced at 1.5 to win after ninety minutes. It's officially a sell-out crowd at The Lamb Ground, so there will be just over 3,500 people packed in on Friday night. It will be a unique experience for Huddersfield but one they will relish.
Huddersfield should have the beating of Tamworth, but in terms of full-time results/handicaps, there doesn't appear to be much value. Therefore, the best bet comes from an alternative market.
Michael Duff was lambasted for his style of play while at Swansea, with his direct style of play the antithesis of the 'Swansea Way.' He has stuck to his principles at Huddersfield, with his side looking to get the ball forward quickly and cross to the front two. The five-at-the-back formation he favours often leads to higher corner counts, with Huddersfield away games averaging 12.17 corners.
In Matty Pearson, Huddersfield have won one of the best goal-scoring centre-backs in League One, with the 31-year-old scoring three goals in just seven League One appearances this season. His aerial dominance could be crucial in a tight game.
While Tamworth games only average 8.38 corners, the visit of a League One side should see this total go up. Huddersfield will be pressing from minute one, with Andy Peaks relying on counter-attacks and direct football to bustling target man Dan Creaney.
Prediction: Over 10.5 Asian Corners @2.00
BBC TWO / BBC I PLAYER/ BBC ONLINE @ 19:45
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