A group of lucky football fanatics have had their fantasies turned into reality as part of the FA Cup Dreams competition.
Seven-year-old football fanatic Alistair Worrall from Clayhanger in Walsall has become the first person in the country to win a sleepover with The FA Cup this season, as The FA introduces a new generation to the magic of the world’s oldest domestic football competition.
West Brom fan Alistair won the chance to spend the night with the iconic trophy after his parents entered him into The FA Cup Dreams competition on the official FA Cup Facebook page.
Alistair's dad Julian said it was a 'fantastic surprise'
Alistair’s ecstatic father Julian commented: “What a fantastic surprise that really rounded off a brilliant Christmas for us. My wife saw the competition on The FA Cup Facebook page, she entered but never thought she would actually win.
"Having The FA Cup in our own home for the night was truly magical, a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we’ll always remember, in particular Alistair who is just starting off his football journey.”
Across the country in the East Midlands 11-year-old Nottingham Forest fan Flynn Cross from West Bridgford had his wishes granted when he lifted the famous trophy in front of his own supporters during the win over Leeds on Sunday.
Nottingham Forest fanatic and season-ticket holder Flynn won the chance to lift the trophy at his beloved club after his parents entered him into The FA Cup Dreams competition.
It has been over 50 years since The FA Cup trophy was last seen at the City Ground
Flynn’s father and lifelong Forest fan Jonathan said: “As season-ticket holders Flynn, his brother and I go to almost every game but the Leeds game over Christmas was extra special.
"It’s not often you get to see The FA Cup up close but for Flynn to actually lift it on the pitch in front of all the Forest supporters was incredible. An unforgettable experience for us all and the perfect Christmas present.”
Meanwhile, in London as Tottenham Hotspur gear up for this weekend’s eagerly anticipated FA Cup Third Round tie with Arsenal, eight-year-old Spurs fanatic Luke Sawyer has already cemented his place at the semi-finals at Wembley – by winning a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lead a player out onto the pitch.
And as Coventry City prepare for their FA Cup Third Round tie with Barnsley, nine-year-old Sky Blues supporter Shay Young has also won a mascot place to lead a player out onto the pitch during an FA Cup Semi-Final under the famous Wembley arch.
The FA Cup Dreams initiative was launched by FA Cup winner and England hero Michael Owen this season with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities such as winning a sleepover with The FA Cup, lifting the trophy in front of your own fans and meeting your footballing heroes.
The competition is open to children aged 12 or under from the Third Round to the Final.
