FA Cup derby is given the all-clear

Wednesday 28th October 2009, 9:56AM GMT.

Stourbridge have been given the go-ahead to host their FA Cup clash with Walsall.

Doubts were cast over the suitability of the War Memorial Ground, but after a meeting between the FA, local authorities and both clubs the first-round tie will be played there on November 7 (1pm).

The Saddlers chief executive Roy Whalley said: “It’s games like Stourbridge v Walsall which makes the FA Cup the oldest and best domestic cup competition.

“Stourbridge have jumped through the qualifying rounds and beat Buxton 4-0 away and quite rightly should get the chance to stage the game.”

And Glassboys manager Gary Hackett says hosting the game hands his side an advantage and keeps the pressure on the Saddlers – who are four divisions above his Southern League Premier Division outfit.

He said: “It’s a game where we’ve got nothing to lose and the pressure is on them. It’s going to be a great game and a great occasion.

“But they are professional players. Chris (Hutchings) and Martin (O’Connor) have both played lower league football and Martin and I came from the same non-league club (Bromsgrove) so they know what it’s about.

“Everyone involved in Stourbridge wanted to play it a home and it will be one heck of an atmosphere. It’s great for the fans to have it at home because they deserve it.”


  1. 1
    Alt

    Amazing stuff…good luck Stourbridge.

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  2. 2
    Mystic Saddler

    Cmon Stourbridge, hammer another nail in Walley and Bonsors coffin

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  3. 3
    desben

    Who you kiddin Mystic?? They’re going nowhere, sadly

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  4. 4
    Swampy Saddler

    UMM??? Mixed emotions about this decision!
    On one hand I can see the arguement about the history and culture of the FA Cup and Stourbridge wanting to play the game at home, but they are kidding themselves to beleive that this will give them an advantage.
    On the other hand they surely should be looking at the fuure and making some cash out the event by playing the game at a larger ground.

    Don’t get me wrong I am all for the glamour of the cup and the underdog having that chance…..it is after all 11 v 11 over 90 mins and all that, but Stourbridge should have done themselves a favour and opted for Kiddy or somewhere similar.

    What ever happens next week, it will be a great day out for 1677 people!

    Well done Storbridge for getting to your cup final……………brilliant!

    UTS!

    ps…..did anyone on here go to Slough 3 years back?

    Report abuse



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