Puritans' FA Cup clash to go ahead

Banbury United's first appearance in the first round of the Emirates FA Cup for 40 years will go ahead as planned this weekend.

Question marks over the participation of 'non-elite' clubs in the competition had been raised after it was confirmed that only 'elite' sport would continue once the UK enters a new Covid-19 lockdown on Thursday this week.

But the Football Association have now confirmed that the 10 non-elite clubs, including Banbury, will remain in the competition.

It means the Puritans will host Canvey Island as planned at 3pm on Saturday although all ties will now be played under elite protocols, meaning it will be behind closed doors with no fans being allowed to attend.

Fortunately for Banbury fans, the match had already been selected for live single-camera broadcast on BBC digital platforms, which means supporters will be able to watch the action online. Banbury and Canvey Island will both receive £12,500 for that.

Manager Andy Whing is hoping to lead Banbury into the second round for the first time in their history but, if they do achieve it, no fans will be there to see it.

In their statement, the FA said: "We can confirm that all Emirates FA Cup first round ties will go ahead this weekend as planned.

"The UK Government has confirmed that the ten non-elite clubs that remain in the competition will be able to play their matches under elite protocols. Matches will take place between November 6-9, 2020. All ties will be played behind closed doors, in line with COVID-19 guidelines.

"We remain in regular dialogue with the UK Government in relation to both men’s and women’s ‘non-elite’ football in England and will provide a further update on this in due course."

Winning clubs in the first round will receive £16,972 from the FA prize fund, with losing clubs collecting £5,657.