We are dismayed at the FAs decision to alter the format of the FA Cup without consulting Football league or Grassroots clubs. To make the changes whilst giving voice to just the richest, elite clubs is both damaging to football as a whole and raises doubts about the objectiveness of those that govern football in this country

The decision to scrap replays from the first round shows disregard not only to the rich history of the FA Cup but to those less wealthier clubs who dream of a ‘cup run’ to create memories and importantly much needed funds.
We call upon our governing body, The FA to reverse this decision and to give equal say and priority to the majority of their members that provide so much enjoyment and entertainment to football fans at an affordable, safe and accessible level.

We look forward to the introduction of an independent Football Regulator and hope it is empowered sufficiently.
A simple solution proposed by Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester:
“Amend the Football Governance Bill, which is in the Commons on Tuesday, to require that any domestic cup competition can only be changed with a majority vote of all clubs eligible to enter it”

Finally to quote Grimsby Town FC who posted this morning – “The dreams of so many should not be denied by so few”