The FA Cup sponsored by E.ON
Player of the Third Round



Barnet striker Jason Puncheon has taken the vote in the race to be The FA Cup 'Player of the Third Round', securing his place at this season's FA Cup Final as a result.

The Barnet hot-shot knocked out Colchester with a stunning strike putting the Bees into the Fourth Round against Plymouth. His performance also saw him edge out the other contenders Arturo Lupoli, Dion Dublin, Thomas Rosicky and Thomas Butler.

Barnet boss Paul Fairclough was delighted for Jason and hoped for more from the striker in the next round.

Paul told TheFA.com: "It's absolutely brilliant for the lad, he was terrific on the night for us and he deserves every credit.

"He isn't very tall but his movement and his strength were outstanding all night, he was dropping off the Colchester defence and going into wide areas and was a real handful. His play was intelligent as well as powerful, which is great combination.

"His goal was the coup de grace for us and sets us up with another interesting game in the next round."

Fairclough is also pleased that in the next round he will have the chance to see Puncheon on the same pitch as Barry Hayles.

"I've been telling Jason recently how much he reminds me of Barry Hayles and this game is fantastic for me personally to see one of my former players against my current side," Fairclough explained.

Player of the Round winners will receive VIP hospitality for themselves and their guest at The FA Cup Final on Saturday 19 May 2007.

The winner of each award will be presented with a solid silver salver along with a kit bag of training equipment which he can donate to a local school of his choice.