When planned changes to the FA Cup by the FA leaked out, the Football Supporters Federation hit out with protest. Included in the changes are the possible kickoff of the final at 17:30 after the FA assured the FSF they would be involved in any changes in the competition.
The FA broke their word says FSF chairman Malcolm Clarke. If our support is wanted this is not the way to go about it we feel we are on the outside looking in, it was a big error on the FA’s part.
Other changes may include the abolishing of replays and Clarke is sure that opposition will be large against that as well as the proposed change in the kickoff time.
Even though there are differences he does agree with some of the changes. He likes the idea of Premier League teams facing lower league clubs more often so a change to the seeding he would favor.
To help convince teams to field their best 11 a Champions League place to the winners would be a great addition.
Ticket price reduction and regional match ups through the fifth round were other suggestions he would like to see in the future.
There is need for change but the need to see the entire package exists as well, so we can show out members.
The FA response was they are committed to consulting the fans and that no changes have been finalized.
The Premier league and Cup committee are keen to make changes quickly and presentations have been made to both. These changes, if any, will take effect for the 2012-12 season at the very earliest.