FA Cup 3rd round round up

The 3^rdround of the FA cup an historic event of upsets and drama. For non-league the 3^rd round is a target a chance to face big opposition where there is nothing to lose and everything to gain. While for the might of the premier league the 3^rd round usually only offers embarrassment for those under pressure. 

And this year was no exception as the stand out match paired up the premier league Leaders with the premier league Champions in the Manchester derby. For the first time city went in favourites but an early dismissal for Captain Vincent Kompany and United threatened to run a rout over their rivals, as goals from Wayne Rooney and one for Danny Welbeck gave United three without reply at the break. Yet a gutsy performance for Roberto Mancini s side produced a second half comeback, as goals from Kolarov and Aguero saw a careless United nearly throw away their place in the fourth round.

There were also wins for Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham after all comfortably despatching lower league opposition. While the scene was perfectly set for Thierry Henry’s Arsenal return. After coming off the bench to score 12 minutes from time proving to be the winner, as the Gunners saw off championship Leeds.

 

A dream return for Henry after scoring winner

The shock of the round came at league 2 Swindon after Paolo Di Canio’s side dumped out premier league Wigan. Despite this the fourth round fails to feature any non-league teams, as Fleetwood Tamworth and Salisbury could not produce the big cup upset. But the fourth round gave even more enthralling ties, as Liverpool host Manchester United and a potential Chelsea QPR clash if they overcome a home replay to MK Dons While Arsenals triumph earns them a home tie with Aston Villa