Match Preview: Leatherhead fc vs Phoenix

Phoenix travel to Leatherhead to kick-off FA Cup campaign

Phoenix Sports kick off their 2025/26 Emirates FA Cup campaign this Saturday with a trip to Isthmian South promotion hopefuls Leatherhead FC in the Extra Preliminary Round.

The tie, hosted at Fetcham Grove, will be a tough test for Darren Anslow’s men in the world’s most historic domestic cup competition.

Phoenix head into the clash hoping to cause an upset. After a solid pre-season, the Sports suffered a disappointing defeat at Hollands & Blair in their league opener on Saturday and will be keen to bounce back with a stronger performance in Surrey.

Their opponents, Leatherhead, will pose a serious challenge. The Tanners have promotion ambitions this season, along with a rich history in the FA Cup, including several deep runs in the competition. Their most famous came in 1974–75 when they reached the fourth round before narrowly losing 3–2 to Leicester City at Filbert Street.

Leatherhead have had a mixed pre-season, which included a thumping 6–0 win over Merstham as well as heavy defeats to Farnham Town and Dorking Wanderers. Phoenix will need an improved performance on Saturday if they are to progress.

Phoenix have no new fitness concerns and hope to include Jake Goodman and Harry Barnes in the squad travelling to Fetcham Grove.

Supporters are encouraged to make the journey to Surrey and get behind the team with kick-off scheduled for 3PM at Leatherhead’s Fetcham Grove. You can find admission details ahead of Saturday’s match here.

Follow @PhoenixSportsFC on social media for live match updates, behind-the-scenes content, and post-match reaction as our 2025-26 FA Cup journey begins.