Hyde United Football Club joins the many clubs across the English game in condemning the decision of the FA and the Premier League to scrap FA Cup replays.

The opportunity to compete in the oldest cup competition in the world remains a huge part of our football season, and allows players and supporters to make memories that last a lifetime. The money generated can transform a club if they have a successful run as many have done over the years. Only a few seasons ago we reached the First Round Proper, earning vital income from the cup run when we faced League One side MK Dons live on the BBC.

For clubs in the non-league pyramid, to be denied the opportunity to increase revenue from broadcast fees and gate receipts through a potential replay, shows the divide between the top level of the football pyramid and the leagues below this, when the game is at the richest it has ever been. Outside of the financial implications, it also takes away a huge part of the history and heritage of the FA Cup that has made it so special.

For what it is worth, the club was also upset to see the FA break tradition of the FA Trophy by ending the two-legged semi final in recent seasons which we believe should be reinstated.

We urge the FA and the Premier League to listen to the concerns of football clubs and supporters across the pyramid and reconsider their decision after consultation with stakeholders at all levels.

The Tigers claimed the Cheshire Senior Cup after beating Crewe Alexandra on penalties.

The game finished 2-2 in normal time with Jack Redshaw and Lewis Alessandra on the scoresheet.

Jordan Eastham was the hero in the penalty shootout having scored one and saved one and it was left to Antoine Makoli to blast home the decisive penalty.

Here is the reaction from manager Nick Spooner

Hear from Nick Spooner and Jordan Eastham after Saturday’s win over FC United of Manchester

Match reaction from manager Nick Spooner and goal scorer Florian Yonsian

Nick Spooner has added to his forward line, on deadline day, by bringing in Florian Yonsian from Warrington Rylands.

Former Rochdale academy player Yonsian, 23, the moved to Salford City and also has spent time with Ashton United where he netted 12 times in 36 appearances during the 2021-22 season.

He has also spent loan spells in the NPL with Trafford, Marine and Stalybridge Celtic.

With Easter Monday’s game approaching fast, and less than expected ticket sales, we have revised our plans for segregation.

Macclesfield supporters will now enter the ground via the turnstiles at the bottom of our car park, behind our Social Club. They will then occupy the bottom half of Tinkers Stand, behind one of the goals, round to the start of Leigh Street stand.

This will give access to Big Als Corner, where they will be able to purchase food and alcohol at Big Als Tea Bar and Big Als Can Bar. Also, in that corner they will have access to male and female toilets.

At the end of the game, Macclesfield supporters will be required to exit the ground via the gates at the swimming baths end, into the leisure centre car park, by exiting along Leigh Street stand. This will lead them into the car park where there will be limited parking and where any coaches will be parked.

For this match – entry into the Club’s main car park will be restricted and reserved only for Match Officials, Directors, Match Sponsors & those reserved for mobility reasons. 

We remind ALL supporters that parking in the leisure centre car park is limited and on a first come first served basis, and that some surrounding streets are residence parking only. So, supporters generally should either travel on foot, by public transport or park away from the ground.

Away Tickets can still be purchased via https://app.fanbaseclub.com/Fan/Tickets/SelectType?fixtureId=5079

Our Cheshire Senior Cup Final with Crewe Alexandra will take place on Tuesday, April 16 (7.45pm)  

The Final will be held at Witton Albion’s U Lock It Stadium.

Ticket details will be announced in due course.

Watch reaction from Nick and Callum Spooner following the 0-0 home draw with Warrington Rylands