Haddock has place in FA Cup
HARRY HADDOCK is back on the FA Cup menu at Southampton on Wednesday night – to the delight of League Two minnows Grimsby Town.
Following a change of heart by the Premier League club, who host Paul Hurst’s side in the fifth round, around 5,000 Grimsby fans will now be able to bring their inflatable fish with them.
Originally Saints officials had wanted to ban the traditional Harry Haddock inflatables, because “they contravene ground regulations”.
Mariners officials cried ‘Codswallop!’ – and even some Saints supporters were embarrassed by their club’s actions, believing they were ‘trout of order’.
But now following talks between the two clubs there will be a plaice for them after all.
Grimsby’s CEO Debbie Cook said: “I’m delighted we’ve been able to bring them back because they are deeply embedded in our FA Cup folklore. They add to the atmosphere at home and away games.”
It’s been some cup run for the Mariners in their first season back in the EFL after winning promotion via the play-offs from the National League.
Championship promotion hopefuls Luton were thumped 3-0 at Blundell Park in the fourth round, following a 2-2 draw at Kenilworth Road. League One sides Cambridge United, Burton Albion and Plymouth have all been accounted for.
Grimsby boss Hurst, in his second spell at the club, said: “It’s important we go to Southampton as players, as a club to enjoy the day. But we also have to give a good account of ourselves and try to be as competitive as we can for as long as we can.”
The lowest-ranked side left in the FA Cup, Grimsby still need points to steer clear of any relegation issues. “I said after beating Luton there is still a lot of hard work to be done in the league. Every game is a big one.” Hurst added.