Cheltenham-based Claret Richard Price gives his reaction to the FA Cup draw.
Being born and bred and still living in Cheltenham, watching my first game in 1966, yet having supported Burnley for almost 40 years and being a member of the London Clarets, this game is one I probably never expected to happen. I always felt it was OK to support Cheltenham as well as Burnley, as they were non-league and my local club. It will be a strange day with my two teams playing each other in a competitive game.
I am not surprised that the game has been moved. The third round tie with Oldham was moved on police advice because they could not cover that game and the Forest Green v Hereford clash on the same day. With the race course less than a mile from the ground, they would not be able to cope.
Whilst the ground capacity has been increased, I understand from the local media that Burnley will be given around 1,800 tickets, approximately 1000 standing and 800 seats. Trouble is, the away standing has not changed from the non-league days, and is not very good. Best to go for the seats if you can.
Pubs by the ground are probably best avoided, but there are many within the town centre. Also, with the kick off at 1.00pm, drinking time will be severely limited.
Whilst Cheltenham have made great strides over the last couple of years, their improvements on the pitch have probably not been matched off the field. While the admin of the club has improved, at times it is still very non-league. It is very surprising that the directors have decided to not make it all ticket for Cheltenham fans, and that tickets will be on sale from Sunday, with no limit as to how many each person can buy.
It should be an interesting game, and whilst expecting Burnley to be strong, the Clarets will underestimate Cheltenham at their peril. One of Cheltenham's biggest assets is their tremendous team spirit, work rate and never say die approach. They can also play some football, even with Mark Yates and Neil Howarth in their team.
Looking forward to a great game.
