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Once again it’s that time of the year when we can take a short break from the rigours of the league as the FA Cup is upon us.  With United still having to enter at the qualifying stages this season we have drawn Lincoln Town away and, as in previous years at this level it will not be an easy game. Whoever, you play at this stage, whatever their status will be up for a fight and a battle. This year perhaps more than for a long time with the prospect of Leeds, Norwich, Charlton or Southampton in the first round proper. Cambridge United as a club will need to equal every drop of blood and sweat that they will undoubtedly display.  Lincoln despite their position in the league will raise their game massively on the day.  They will be our equals for every one of those ninety minutes. We must match them in endeavour. Raise our game, challenge for every ball and fight for every second of the match.

The Cup means so much to every club in the land for so many reasons. The possibility of that glamour draw against a team from the Football League is the first target. The next target after must be the third round and a Premiership team. What it would do for the club to beat Leeds away beat Norwich away and face Arsenal or Manchester United in the home third round. A dream. Yes but football is still capable of sustaining dreams and dreamers.

The FA Cup is a competition full of romantic stories from years gone by.  However, in the real world there is a cold realism that detracts from the fairytale in terms of financial survival. It will bring in untold riches to some of those that succeed and guarantee that budgets are met and previously dubious existences are firmed up and primed for success. Previous debilitating debts can be wiped out completely. Is it only a coincidence that both Exeter and Burton have been promoted following exceptional cup matches against Manchester United in previous seasons?

Cambridge United is like every other team. They need to win on Sunday and progress in the Cup. We need the money. The feel good factor a cup run brings can potentially add thousands to gates, not just as a one off but for years to come. That feel good factor can correspondingly bring financial and social benefits to not only the club, but the whole area. Putting us on the map and drawing attention after the effects of our long decline and mismanagement has faded us into the background.

 Two years ago we stood at Molineux. Thousands travelled with the club. It was a better atmosphere than Wembley. I will never forget being held in traffic whilst twenty seven coaches sped past. A fantastic sight. Everybody loves the FA Cup; it is part of every supporter’s heritage. We need to ensure we are in the draw on Monday. We need to ensure the supporters leave the ground happy and positive on Sunday. We need to ensure there is no repeat of last week’s dismal result.

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