Preamble
Is romance truly dead? This season’s FA Cup might lead you think so. For starters, only two non-league sides have made it into the famous third round, an early sign that removing replays might cut the number of giantkilling runs. Fifth-tier side Tamworth did profit from a penalty shootout to eliminate Burton Albion, while Dagenham & Redbridge – above their National League cohorts on goal difference – won at AFC Wimbledon to book their place.
Also, with no live TV game tonight, the draw is not being held in a freshly renovated non-league clubhouse, or sparsely furnished League Two conference room. No, it’s taking place at the home of the holders, Manchester United. They are one of several certified big boys dropping into the draw, eager to snuff out any final sparks of FA Cup fun. Still, the Cup still usually finds a way. The draw begins at 7pm-ish, GMT.