FA Cup Third Round Set to Proceed Despite Weather Worries

Strategic Insights -

The third round of the FA Cup is poised to begin this weekend, largely unaffected by the harsh winter weather, but the Football Association is advising clubs to conduct early pitch inspections to minimize the risk of postponements. The main concern lies with frozen pitches, with Luton's home tie against Southend United already being postponed due to an icy field at Kenilworth Road.

Key Takeaways:

  • Liverpool's chances in the FA Cup are threatened by the prospect of a frozen pitch at Ashton Gate, which could hinder their chances against Bristol City.
  • Manchester United are the bookmakers' favorites to win the Cup, with odds of 4/1, according to Ladbrokes.
  • Sheffield United, who knocked out Manchester United in the previous round, are confident of repeating the feat, especially if Mark Hughes is fit to play.
  • Blackburn Rovers are the best-backed side in the competition, followed closely by Newcastle United and Arsenal.
  • The holders, Arsenal, will play against Millwall at the new Den on Monday night.
  • Several notable names are at risk today, including Everton at Bolton and Manchester City against Peterborough.
  • Football fans will be eagerly watching the matches, with potential upsets possible, as Kidderminster, Bromsgrove, and Sutton United look to carry the non-League banner forward.

Statistics:

  • 4/1: the odds of Manchester United winning the FA Cup, according to Ladbrokes.
  • 10 days: the police's insistence on notice for replays in case more games are called off this morning.
  • 8/1: the odds of Newcastle United and Arsenal, who are second favorites to win the Cup.
  • 3-0: the scoreline of Liverpool's loss to Luton in the 1987 second replay.
  • 2: the number of matches not settled after the initial format, which will go to penalties.
  • 22 teams: the non-League teams competing in the third round, including Kidderminster, Bromsgrove, and Sutton United.

Sources:

  • "Blizzard fails to stop FA Cup matches" - The Telegraph
  • "FA Cup: Third round matches set to go ahead despite weather" - BBC Sport
  • "Manchester United are favourites to win FA Cup" - Ladbrokes
  • "Sheffield United confident of FA Cup upset" - The Star