Wrexham owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have always stood with those in need. Both Hollywood stars are heralded as exemplary figures in the soccer world. Yet, in a very need of the hour, when their voices were needed most, there was nothing but pin-drop silence. Neither the Welsh club nor its owners have backed Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony, who is leading the charge against the ongoing controversy surrounding FA Cup replays, despite the EFL club’s chief being a ‘big fan’ of the actor duo. 

The upcoming 2024/25 season of the FA Cup is poised for significant structural changes, notably the elimination of replays, a move that has ignited controversy among soccer faithful. While Darragh MacAnthony started a movement against the cause, it failed to yield any significant outcome. “I did an e-mail to EFL clubs asking them to join us in criticizing the decision to scrap FA Cup replays, but Championship clubs have been quiet and it’s disappointing that Wrexham have been quiet,” he said while speaking on the Hard Truth podcast. 

MacAnthony did beg pardon if the Red Dragons had addressed the issue, which he might have overlooked while denying to the fans that it’s not just another ‘dig at their club’ before they start criticizing him. “I’m usually very positive about them and I’m a big fan of their owners. But this is a club that has made a lot of money from replays on ESPN. I will watch part three of their documentary, but it did amuse me they have been marketing it with the theme tune from Rocky, one of the great underdog movies!” concluded MacAnthony.

It’s quite surprising to hear that Wrexham didn’t respond to MacAnthony’s mail. But why aren’t they fighting back, considering the replays are positive for them? 

How has Wrexham benefitted from the FA Cup replays that have been scrapped now? 

Last season, Wrexham endured the disappointment of an FA Cup replay, suffering a loss to Sheffield United in the fourth round of the competition. Despite coming close to a giant killing in the initial match, a late equalizer from the opposition forced a replay at Bramall Lane, where they were ultimately defeated 3-1. Despite this setback, the Welsh club recognizes the potential benefits that replays can bring to non-league clubs, offering a welcome financial boost. However, they have chosen not to retaliate or criticize the decision.

Many grassroots and non-league clubs view FA Cup replays as crucial revenue sources that support the operation of soccer. Therefore, the decision to scrap them has been met with widespread disappointment. Additionally, other controversial decisions by the FA, such as eliminating midweek fixtures and scheduling the final the weekend before the last set of PL matches, have further fueled outrage. This further intensified among many EFL and non-league clubs as these decisions were made without consulting clubs outside of the top flight.

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Let’s see if this public call-out from Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony serves as a reminder for Wrexham to respond to the email.