CUP ROW KICKS OFF

MOVING kick-off times from 3pm on Saturday is killing the “magic” of the FA Cup, according to a leading fans’ organisation.

Less than a third of thirdround matches will be played at the traditional time in line with the FA’s £820million TV deal.

Football Supporters’ Federation chief Malcolm Clarke said: “The third round of the FA Cup on the first Saturday in January was always one of the great highlights of the season, and this new trend diminishes the magic of the day.

“We do understand that the money is reinvested in football but there’s a grave danger that [the FA] might threaten the magic of the Cup.”