The dangerous reasons why smaller clubs daren't try to win the FA Cup anymore - and why they should take that risk for glory, writes MATT BARLOW

The dangerous reasons why smaller clubs daren't try to win the FA Cup anymore - and why they should take that risk for glory, writes MATT BARLOW

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The dangerous reasons why smaller clubs daren't try to win the FA Cup anymore - and why they should take that risk for glory, writes MATT BARLOW
Published: Jan, 12 2025 17:00

Subzero in High Wycombe and Portsmouth supporters sang to stay warm in a packed away end. First with irony about going to Wembley. Then they bounced around and swore about the temperature. Then they taunted their own team for failing to muster a shot before skidding out of the FA Cup.

 [The club won the FA Cup in 2008 before reaching the final in a losing effort two years later]
Image Credit: Mail Online [The club won the FA Cup in 2008 before reaching the final in a losing effort two years later]

Que sera, the Chimes have changed for Pompey since they lifted the trophy in 2008 and were runners-up two years later, before financial crisis sped the club to the brink of extinction. 'We look back knowing the success of that era was built on sand but wouldn’t trade those memories for anything,' said Donald Vass, chairman of the Pompey Supporters’ Trust. 'For most living Pompey fans it’s the greatest moment, with lasting memories for families and friends.

 [In the years since, Pompey have endured a number of setbacks but now find themselves back in the Championship]
Image Credit: Mail Online [In the years since, Pompey have endured a number of setbacks but now find themselves back in the Championship]

'Reaching the final in 2010, we had entered administration and were relegated but the FA Cup gave us moments of joy. We put a few demons to rest. We beat our red-and-white striped neighbours from up the road for one and beat Harry Redknapp’s Spurs after he left us for them.'.

 [Pompey boss John Mousinho fielded a rotated side for their third-round tie with ensuring Championship survival a clear priority]
Image Credit: Mail Online [Pompey boss John Mousinho fielded a rotated side for their third-round tie with ensuring Championship survival a clear priority]

At Wigan Athletic they would say the same. Winning the FA Cup in 2013 was coupled with relegation three days later, and a decade of turmoil since. Yet it is the club’s defining glory and emotions revolve around the same word. Portsmouth's tepid FA Cup exit gave the club's fans pause to reminisce about their prior glories in the competition.

 [Shaun Maloney netted as Wigan produced a historic upset against Man City in 2013's final]
Image Credit: Mail Online [Shaun Maloney netted as Wigan produced a historic upset against Man City in 2013's final]

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