Cup competitions have lost some of their appeal in recent years. Top teams generally put out second elevens for the league cup and may not play their full strength teams in the FA Cup. This reflects the financial importance of staying in the Premiership and, for the top clubs, qualifying for Europe.
Cup competitions have lost some of their appeal in recent years. Top teams generally put out second elevens for the league cup and may not play their full strength teams in the FA Cup. This reflects the financial importance of staying in the Premiership and, for the top clubs, qualifying for Europe.
However, cup competitions may give a significant boost to the finances of lower league and non-league clubs. For a club like Tranmere Rovers, the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy offers their best chance of reaching Wembley. Fans may call it the ‘paint drying trophy’, but as teams progress through the rounds, its appeal increases.
The FA Cup is the real money spinner. There is decent prize money for winning and the matches attract much bigger crowds than then JPT. If a club gets through to the third round it may draw a Premiership club and earn significant financial rewards. For Tranmere, a good cup run may bring the financial stability that the club is close to achieving.