Workington Reds will start their defence of the Fred Conway Cumberland Cup against Gosforth – while Carlisle United face a derby against Carlisle City.
The first round draw of the county senior cup was made at the Cumberland FA’s headquarters today.
The tie of the round paired 2022 winners Carlisle City with United in a game to be played at the Three Rivers Health & Safety Consultancy Stadium at Gillford Park.
It is a repeat of 2022’s semi-final when Jim Nichols’ side knocked out the Blues on their way to the trophy.
Danny Grainger’s current holders, meanwhile, will get their campaign off to a Borough Park start.
They take on Gosforth from the Cumberland County Premier League.
Last year’s losing finalists Penrith have also been drawn at home as they take on Bransty Rangers.
There is an away trip for Cleator Moor Celtic who face west Cumbrian rivals Whitehaven AFC.
Nine first round ties were drawn today with another seven sides receiving byes.
Workington won the competition last season after beating Penrith 9-1 in the final at Brunton Park in May.
It saw Grainger’s side lift the county senior cup for the first time in six years.
Carlisle United last won the competition in 2019 and have gone out to the eventual winners in the last two seasons.
Workington Reds, meanwhile, have a home tie against Prestwich Heys in the first qualifying round of the FA Cup.
The Greater Manchester club, who play in the North West Counties Premier Division, earned their trip to Borough Park by beating Penistone Church 2-0 on Saturday.
They will face Workington on Saturday, September 2 with £2,250 prize money available to the winners.
FRED CONWAY CUMBERLAND CUP FIRST ROUND DRAW
Workington Reds v Gosforth
Whitehaven AFC v Cleator Moor Celtic
Silloth v Whitehaven Miners Social
Wigton Harriers v Keswick
Wetheriggs United v Kirkoswald
Windscale v Braithwaite
Carlisle City v Carlisle United
Cockermouth v Maryport Athletic
Penrith AFC v Bransty Rangers
Ties must be played on or before Saturday, October 7.
BYES
Eden Valley, Dearham United, Unisun Athletic, Alston Moor, Aspatria, Mirehouse AFC, Greystoke
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