Cup Gives Us Some Fantastic Memories

It’s still a magical competition.

- Glenn Moore

IT IS nearly ten years ago now, but occasionally the memory is triggered and the mind goes back to a cold, wet night at Oakwell, a raucous crowd, Martin

Devaney’s high cross hanging in the air… and Kayode Odejayi leaping high to head in past Carlo Cudicini.

March 2008. The FA Cup. Barnsley beating a Chelsea side containing John Terry, Michael Essien, Joe Cole, Nicolas Anelka, Michael Ballack and more. A night of drama and delirium no-one there will ever forget.

There are others. Cardiff City beating Leeds United – the talented ‘chasing the dream’ era Leeds of David O’Leary – at a wild Ninian Park. Gillingham putting then-Premier League clubs Bradford City and Sheffield Wednesday to the sword. And, many moons ago, York City stunning Arsenal at a snowy Bootham Crescent.

As a journalist and fan I’ve been privileged to watch big matches around the world and at great stadia, but it is surprising how many of the most memorable are FA Cup ties at more humble arenas.

This is the magic of the world’s oldest knockout competition and I desperately hope Football League clubs are seizing the opportunity this weekend.

This column was penned before the third round kicked off, but it did not take a crystal ball to know many teams will have fielded weakened sides.