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Stevenage's Joel Byrom attempts to block a shot by Tottenham's Gareth Bale - Source: Reuters
What do Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Jack Wilshere (Arsenal) and Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton have in common? They were all born in a town that is still in the FA Cup. No doubt you are thinking, "ah yes the wonderful Stevenage."
Each season the FA Cup still makes many dreams come true for some of the lower league teams that overachieve against big spenders such as Tottenham and Chelsea.
This year Stevenage and Birmingham upset Tottenham and Chelsea respectively, by securing draws and earning replays in a competition they would have expected to exit.
Stevenage? Most wouldn't know they have a football team let alone one that can manage a draw with Tottenham. The lads must be salivating at the prospect of playing Spurs at White Hart Lane for the replay - a dream come true.
Few will give either Birmingham or Stevenage a chance against such world class opposition, however they managed a miracle in the first leg, so why not the second?
It all proves that the FA Cup is a great competition and one that still springs surprises.
Sadly, though, most of the Premier League elite don't give the competition the respect it deserves.
This is proven by the fact only one of the current top four remains in the competition. It's become a way to blood youth into a senior competition.
It's slightly frustrating when we want to see the best players each week, though is also understandable with the amount of football played.
The entertainment factor was delivered in the FA Cup this week when Brighton scored four goals in their 6-1 loss to Liverpool. Doesn't really add up does it?
Three own goals is unheard of. The best part is Brighton player Liam Bridcutt scored two of them, the poor old sod.
I'm a fan of the FA Cup and love the aspect that there is one competition that gives every level their chance to shine. I'm not going out to buy a Stevenage shirt in support, but I'll be jumping to the roof if they can pull off the impossible.
To read more from Noah Hickey, click here .
