It is a bitter blow to some of the smaller clubs in the competition and takes away one of the ‘magic’ elements of the cup, which has always been the underdog being able to battle through a game and land either a lucrative away fixture or a packed house at home.
But the FA gave in to pressure and removed the replay mechanism, as had been suggested for years by the larger clubs and their managers.
Naturally, it benefits the main characters in the game. Another argument is that Championship clubs gain from it as well, since certain managers may find it convenient to eliminate an extra game.
Speaking to the media today prior to his match against Burnley, Wilder conceded that major league teams such as Arsenal, Liverpool, Man City, and others had once again prevailed.
When questioned by the media what he thought of the ruling, Wilder made a subtly disparaging comment to the larger clubs while advocating for some of the smaller ones that were affected.
“The big boys control and dictate the game as usual, and they don’t want FA Cup replays, do they? There will be a dispute about who is bringing in the most money for the game. “As a traditionalist, how does that affect non-league teams that enter the round three fairy tale and receive a draw at home, not to mention the financial consequences of that?” joked Wilder.
“There have been teams that have won the FA Cup and had replays that helped them out financially for the following three, four, or five years. You are well aware of my career path and background, which have taken me to both extremes, but in my opinion, the lower league clubs should be commended for achieving that
Premier League big boys dominate proceedings but Championship clubs also guilty
Regarding the influence of teams like Liverpool, City, and Arsenal on decisions, Wilder raises an excellent point.
Nevertheless, it must be acknowledged that the FA Cup has changed throughout the years, with even Championship clubs frequently fielding lesser teams in the preliminary stages.
Actually, everyone must accept responsibility for it, but this choice has been made for some time.
In fact, the majority of Blades supporters would probably answer in the affirmative if you asked them if they would like to face Stoke City at home in round three and finish the series in one game.
It matters how those clubs lower on the pyramid are affected. However, this is not just about the biggest clubs gaining their own way.
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