Benefits of the FA CupÂ
Romance of the cup aside, for a lot of lower league and non-league teams, these games hold significant value. Progressing through the rounds can bring substantial prize money, which is often crucial for non-league clubs with smaller budgets. Each win brings a financial boost from the FA, and advancing to later rounds offers even more. Additionally, if a non-league team draws a high-profile club in later rounds, they can earn significant revenue from ticket sales, broadcasting rights, and sponsorships.
For non-league clubs, the FA Cup is an event that galvanizes community support. Fans rally around the team, creating memorable experiences and increasing the club’s connection to its local area. Even a single victory in the FA Cup can generate a strong sense of pride and identity. One community (close to the heart of this author) that has gone through recent struggles, is Southend United. League One Charlton visit Roots Hall in an intriguing tie on Saturday afternoon.
Southend vs Charlton
Southend have been through tough times recently, with back to back relegations in 2020 and 2021. With financial hardships and points deductions, previous owner Ron Martin left the club in a terrible position. Court cases and winding up orders have been more of the talking points in the stands than events on the field. With new owners though, there is a sense of optimism at Roots Hall, where a sell out crowd of 9,000 is expected for the visit of Charlton. Manager Kevin Maher’s Southend team come into the fixture on the back of 4 games unbeaten without conceding a goal and with on loan Luton striker Bim Pepple finding form, confidence is high.
Charlton also come into the game unbeaten in 4 but with 3 draws in the last 4 and sitting mid table, a run in the cup might spark a run into the play off places. Nathan Jones, the former Southampton manager, will have a decision to make on how strong a team to field. Whilst a strong team is expected, I expect (hope) Southend to come out firing.
Tips
With a raucous crowd behind them, and playing two up top, Southend to win the Tie at 11/8 with Rhino.bet could be the value. Potentially this is more hope than expectation but following a strong first half last week against Tamworth and with a defence that isn’t conceding goals, could a potential shock be on the cards? The magic of the cup makes one dream, hopefully this dream becomes a reality…
Winner of the Tie: Southend United – 11/8Â