Reading 'condemns' decision to scrap FA Cup replays and urges 'suspension'

Reading Football Club have released a statement 'condemning' the controversial decision to scrap FA Cup replays.

The Royals have had some standout memories in replays, famously reaching the FA Cup semi-final in 2015 via a replay against Bradford City.

In an attempt to combat fixture congestion in the Premier League, the FA took the controversial decision to scrap replays from round one onwards, despite top-flight teams not entering until round three.

This hinders lower league clubs' opportunities to maximise revenue and alters the history of the prestigious competition.

Joining clubs up and down the pyramid in speaking out against the decision, the club have said: "Reading Football Club condemns Thursday's decision made by The FA and the Premier League to withdraw FA Cup replays.

"As a club we have enjoyed some of the most memorable moments in our history through FA Cup replays. Extra time victories at both Anfield and The Hawthorns in the 2009-10 competition, and of course in 2015 where victory over Bradford secured a first semi-final place since 1927.

"The decision by The FA and the Premier League was taken without consultation with the EFL, National League or the wider grassroots community, with the club first made aware of this change via Thursday's public statement, with no prior warning.

"To alter the rules and regulations of the most-respected cup competition in the world is hugely disappointing, and reinforces the need for a strong and effective independent regulator to govern the National Game.

The Club therefore calls on The FA to suspend this decision and bring all stakeholders to the table in the interests of sporting integrity."