The FA Cup
First Round Proper
05/06 November 2005




FA Chief Executive Brian Barwick has spoken of his enthusiasm for The FA Cup after the weekend's First Round action that saw the traditional mix of upsets and giantkillings, giving fans and players alike a roller-coaster ride of emotions.

"This was a wonderful weekend that captured the special atmosphere and spirit of The FA Cup," Barwick told TheFA.com.

"The fantastic television audience figures, the best for five years, just serve to underline its massive appeal."

A peak TV audience of 3.2 million viewers tuned in yesterday to see Midland Alliance side Chasetown defy the odds to hold Oldham Athletic of League One to a 1-1 draw.

Six divisions and 133 places below their visitors, and the lowest ranked club left in the world's oldest cup competition, Chasetown took the game to the three-time semi-finalists.

Elsewhere, two last-minute goals sealed a dramatic 3-2 victory for Burscough of the Unibond League against Gillingham, while Conference side Tamworth notched a 2-1 victory at League One Bournemouth and Weymouth clinched a 1-1 draw at the City Ground against Nottingham Forest.

"The scenes at places like Burscough took you back to some of the great Cup upsets of yesteryear," Barwick continued.

"I was at Barnet on Saturday to see them take on Southend and it was a great game, full of passion and attacking football. The FA Cup still means so much to players, managers, fans… and FA Chief Executives!

"Let’s not forget, this competition begins in August, not January. There have already been some fantastic stories and there will certainly be plenty more to come.

"This is The FA Cup’s 125th season and, from what we have seen so far, it promises to be a classic."