Worcester Raiders began their competitive 2026/27 campaign with a goalless draw against Ashby Ivanhoe at Claines Lane, meaning the two sides will meet again on Tuesday evening to decide who progresses in the Emirates FA Cup.

Following last season’s historic promotion, expectations were high as Raiders began their 25th anniversary season at the highest level in the club’s history.

First Half

Raiders started brightly and enjoyed plenty of possession. The first real opportunity arrived after 13 minutes when Manny Olaloko forced Ashby goalkeeper Adam Binks into a save low to his right.

Despite Raiders seeing plenty of the ball, clear-cut opportunities were difficult to create and Ashby gradually began to threaten themselves.

A cross from Kieran O’Connell almost found visiting captain Louis Anthony before Nathaniel Wallace found himself one-on-one with Charlie Emery. The Raiders goalkeeper reacted quickly, racing from his line to make an important save.

Emery was called into action again shortly afterwards, this time parrying away another effort from Wallace.

Raiders finished the half on the attack, with Adam Taylor firing narrowly past the post.

Second Half

Ashby created the first opportunity after the restart as Spencer Bailey fired over the crossbar, but Raiders continued to control much of the possession.

There were periods of desperate defending from the visitors as Raiders pushed for the breakthrough, but the final touch just wouldn’t come.

Despite Raiders having the better of the game, Ashby nearly snatched victory when Sam Birks struck the post late on.

There were plenty of positives for Raiders. Some excellent one-touch football in the first half created space and produced some intelligent attacking runs, while defensively the side continued the solidity that was such an important part of last season’s promotion campaign.

Ultimately, though, it proved a frustrating afternoon. Raiders controlled large periods of the contest but couldn’t find the goal their performance deserved.

FULL TIME: WORCESTER RAIDERS 0–0 ASHBY IVANHOE

The tie now goes to a replay on Tuesday night, with Raiders travelling to Ashby looking to secure their place in the next round and kick-start another FA Cup journey.

NEXT UP ?⚔️
? Tuesday 11 August 2026
? Emirates FA Cup Replay
? Ashby Ivanhoe
?️ The Element Ground, Lower Packington Road, Ashby-de-la-Zouch
⏰ 7:45pm KO
? Approx. 58 miles from Claines Lane

Let’s get behind the lads on Tuesday. #UTR ⚔️?