
The eagerly awaited weekend of the THIRD ROUND is finally here, presenting an exciting array of FA Cup matches that will kick off at different times over five days.
The first match will be on Thursday featuring Sheffield United against Cardiff City at Bramall Lane, highlighting a total of FOURTEEN unique kick-off times.
Both BBC and ITV will air select matches, including key confrontations such as Liverpool against Accrington and Tamworth versus Tottenham. However, a few games have been moved for international viewing.
Notable matches impacted include Wycombe Wanderers against Portsmouth on Friday night, along with Birmingham clashing with Lincoln on Saturday afternoon.
Because of the revisions, many of these matches will regrettably be NOT accessible to viewers in the UK.
As Wycombe, a League One team, takes on Championship side Portsmouth on Friday, fans in SEVENTY FOUR countries can watch the action unfold.
Viewers in Kyrgyzstan can enjoy the 7:45 PM kickoff, which will be nearly 2 AM local time, providing a fantastic way to conclude a Friday night with some FA Cup excitement.
Likewise, Pompey fans in Papua New Guinea can catch the game, but at an early 5:45 AM start.
This shift in schedule has ignited controversy among fans, especially regarding the Everton vs Peterborough match on Thursday night, which has generated considerable discussion.
The concluding match of the third round at Goodison Park will be shown on BBC iPlayer and the Red Button, but many Posh fans are voicing their displeasure as they face a 300-mile journey in chilly conditions on a school night.
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Following the announcement of the TV lineup, the League One club formally urged the FA to reconsider, mentioning: “The current train schedules from Liverpool to Peterborough on the match evening are impractical, forcing supporters to rely on cars or coaches.
“Fans would have to take two days off from work to attend this crucial match, and younger fans may have to skip the event due to school commitments.
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“Since this is our first competitive match at Goodison Park, the excitement levels are extremely high.
A shorter turnout could negatively impact the revenue for both Peterborough United and Everton.”
Nevertheless, the match is sold out, with an impressive turnout from both home and away fans anticipated for what promises to be a memorable evening in Merseyside.
The Toffees have parted ways with Sean Dyche today, leaving Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman in charge for this fixture, with David Moyes considered for the managerial position.