The Magic of the FA Cup......again!

Sounds simple doesn't it? Beat Kettering at home to land a plum tie at the home of our bitter rivals the Salford Yanks. So why am I nervous? The answer to that lies in our appalling record in the FA Cup, especially in recent years. A semi final appearance 22 years ago is the nearest we've come to challenging for the famous old trophy since the glory days of the 70's. Along the way defeats against teams from lower leagues whose names still sends a chill through many a Leeds supporters spine. Colchester United, Sunderland, Bristol City, Wimbledon (nearly), Cardiff City, Hereford United, Histon to name but a few. So until we get to 10pm tomorrow night and we've successfully disposed of the Poppies from Kettering I for one won't be counting my chickens. I dare say if we do the celebrations at ER will be slightly more than a victory over non league opposition deserve given the opponents in the next round!

Of course today is the 12th anniversary of the death of the late great Billy Bremner. If any one player epitomised the spirit and culture of Leeds United it was Billy. There have been many eloquent tributes to the wee man today of which I can not top. Suffice to say it would be a fitting tribute to the guy who scored an FA Cup semi final winning goal against Manure in 1965 to send Leeds to their first major cup final, if today's team could dispose of Kettering to earn themselves a crack at the same hated team in red. RIP Billy.

After a packed and rocking stadium on Saturday I suspect that there will be around 20000 less for the replay. Those who are able to make it will make a good job of lifting the atmosphere though and hopefully see an uneventful passage into the next round. As ever I'm looking forward to the game and the anticipation of the walk down Elland Road with the floodlights dazzling and the smell of Granvilles Fish and Chips assaulting my nasal senses but please god don't let this one go to penalties...................my heart wouldn't be able to stand the tension!

In Grayson we trust.
MOT