FotMob were in attendance for the launch of the new Mitre Ultimax Pro Emirates FA Cup ball, ahead of the Men’s 1st Round kicking off this Friday.
Created with football culture in mind, the balls’ designs pay homage to the fans. The Ultimax Pro Emirates FA Cup and Ultimax Pro Women’s FA Cup balls throw it back to the 90s with a modern take on the iconic design of the OG Mitre Ultimax, updating its look for today’s player by including detailed geometric patterns inspired by fans’ scarves and flags on matchdays and the football community.
And with the history of this iconic competition in mind, legendary commentator Clive Tyldesley was on hand to share stories of his decades of covering of The FA Cup. From working the hotels, trying to source team news ahead of the all-Merseyside Final in 1986, to the importance of the Crazy Gang’s iconic upset of Liverpool in 1988, to his commentary on Ben Watson’s match winning header against Man City, to bring the cup home to Wigan, in 2013.
Giant killings and special moments are synonymous with the world’s oldest football competition, and this weekend’s draw has thrown up some incredible ties.
When the draw was made, Cray Valley Paper Mills of the eighth tier would have been hoping and praying for Charlton Athletic. The 28,000 seater The Valley, stands only four miles from The Millers’ Badgers Sports Ground, in Eltham. A truly once in a lifetime tie, for fans who are very likely to support both clubs. Kick-off is Sunday, at 5.15pm.
The lowest ranked team hail from Kent; with ninth-tier Sheppey United making their debut in the 1st Round after 130 years of existence, also being rewarded with professional opposition, as they host League Two Walsall on Friday night.
Gateshead fans will be making the longest trip of the round, as they embark on a 700-mile round-trip to face Somerset’s Yeovil Town, on Saturday. Wrexham have their own rich history in The FA Cup. In 1992, having finished bottom of the fourth division the previous year, they faced top-flight champions Arsenal, at the now globally recognised Cae Ras and completed arguably the greatest giant killing of all time, with a 2-1 win. Having reached the last sixteen last season, The Red Dragons kick off their campaign at 7.45pm on Saturday night, at Mansfield. A tie that will receive the highest viewing figures in America, of any 1st Round tie in the competition’s history.
The 1st Round of The FA Cup is one of the purest days of football in the calendar. A treasure chest of stories and clubs to uncover from the long-tail of English football and where the magic of the cup, is alive and well.
You can follow every match from the FA Cup live with FotMob — featuring deep stats coverage and player ratings. Download the free app here.
Images courtesy of Mitre