FA Cup fever is gripping Taunton with the prestigious first round tie just days away.

For the first time in 35 years, the Peacocks will take to the pitch on Sunday afternoon to compete in the first round match in the world's oldest cup competition against Barrow AFC.

More than 2,000 tickets have been sold for the match, which kicks off at 2pm, with a place in the second round up for grabs.

It is the first time an FA Cup first round match has been played in Taunton, with Town's previous and only appearance in the first round coming 35 years ago, when they lost 2-1 at Swindon in 1981.

Somerset County Gazette:

(These fans will be praying for FA Cup glory on Sunday)

It is sure to be a special occasion, with both teams on form meaning there should be plenty of FA Cup fireworks.

County Gazette editor Paul Jones said: "This is a great achievement for the club, and all of us here and in the town are proud of our Peacocks.

"It will bring a much needed cash boost to the club, and we will be backing the boys to make it into the second round.

"Here at the Gazette, we have followed the club through thick and thin and it is so pleasing to see all of the hard work from the players, management and volunteers at the club rewarded."

Somerset County Gazette:

(County Gazette staff are backing Taunton Town)

A spokesman for the club's main sponsor, Viridor, said: "All eyes are on the Viridor Stadium this weekend as the Peacocks take centre stage on the first leg of their FA Cup journey.

"Viridor’s heart is in Taunton, and we’re proud to sponsor the Taunton Town FC home stadium."

Viridor’s managing director of transport and logistics, Mark Woods has been with the business for more than years, and although originally a Chelsea supporting London man, he has become increasingly interested in the fortunes of town.

He said: "Over the last couple of seasons I have started taking my position on the terrace, I have been impressed watching the boys play with a strong identity. The atmosphere at the ground is really special, the pitch is looking great and we are looking to cheer them into the next round on Sunday.”


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Your County Gazette has a special FA Cup souvenir supplement in today's paper, with previews, insight and nostalgia ahead of the game.

The paper also includes a special FA Cup poster youcan take to the match, or put up in your windows to show your support for the boys.

How are you backing the team? Are you making your own tin foil trophy, or do you have any special plans in place? Email pictures across to newsdesk@countygazette.co.uk

We will also be bringing you live updates during the match, plus fan pictures, so remember to check out your countygazette.co.uk on Sunday.

Come on Taunton! #ProudPeacocks