The FA Cup has undergone a significant change this season, with third round ties set to be decided on the day for the first time in the competition’s history
The FA Cup has taken on a new look this year after one of its oldest traditions was scrapped.
Replays from the first round onwards have been eliminated following a new scheduling agreement between the FA and the Premier League, which will boost funding for grassroots football by up to an additional £33million per season.
The deal, set to last at least six years, sparked outrage among many EFL and non-league clubs when it was unveiled last year. They argued they were not adequately consulted about the changes, alleging the decision was made solely in the interest of top Prem clubs.
Replays had already been removed from the fifth round onwards. Hence, this weekend’s third-round matches will be decided on the day, with extra time and penalties if required.
To appease FA Cup enthusiasts, ties were supposed to be played around weekends, although this year’s third-round action kicks off on a Thursday night with three ties before wrapping up on Monday night.
On Staurday only three ties would have gone to second matches, with Burnley and Stoke winning in extra time and Coventry defeating Sheffield Wednesday on penalties. While Tottenham’s clash with Tamworth would have also gone to a replay.
For the first time, the fourth and fifth rounds and the quarter-finals will all be devoid of Premier League fixtures. The final will be held on the penultimate weekend of the season, with no Premier League matches scheduled for the same day, reports the Mirror.
Mark Bullingham has hailed the revamp of the world’s oldest cup competition as a game-changer. He said: “The Emirates FA Cup is our biggest asset and generates over 60 per cent of our revenue to invest in the game, so it is critical to secure a strong format for the future.
“This new agreement between the FA and the Premier League strengthens the Emirates FA Cup and gives this very special tournament exclusive weekends in an increasingly busy calendar.
“The new schedule ensures the magic of the Cup is protected and enhanced, while working for the whole of the English game. The longer summer period also allows a much-needed player break before the start of the next season.”