The FA Cup is up for grabs

What a day for the FA Cup. Who would have thought that the remaining two "top four" Premier League teams, Chelsea and Manchester United, would bow out of the competition today? Fantastic results for Barnsley and Portsmouth who have now both booked a Wembley appearance.

The trip to Middlesbrough is almost upon us - it will be a very early start tomorrow as it will for all the Cardiff fans making the journey. What awaits the fans of Middlesbrough, Cardiff City and those of Bristol Rovers and West Bromwich Albion? Whatever happens, there must be a real sense amongst all fans concerned that the FA Cup is up for grabs. A top four team will not be taking the famous trophy home with them this year.

Another breath of fresh air in what has been an enthralling FA Cup competition this season. Let's just hope I'm there at the end to see the trophy being lifted.

Northern Exposure

At last, a chance to use the "Zoom Out" function on the map of places visited on this FA Cup run. A trip up North beckons. The draw for the Sixth Round of the FA Cup was made today and it bears an uncanny resemblance to this:

Sheffield United or Middlesbrough v Cardiff City
Manchester United v Portsmouth
Bristol Rovers v West Bromwich Albion
Barnsley v Chelsea

I'm delighted with the draw, even though it could be quite a long journey. I have been to Bramall Lane before and I know the atmosphere is good there. I have never been to Middlesbrough for a game so that would be a new experience to look forward to. I think either venue will offer a reasonable chance of getting hold of a ticket.

The only downside is that I will have to wait a week and a half to find out the exact destination. Don't they say that patience is a virtue? I'm not so sure; she can't have been a football fan...

Now it gets very interesting...

The draw for the Sixth Round Proper will take place on Monday at 1:25pm. The ball numbers have already been allocated:

1 Bristol Rovers
2 Cardiff City
3 Sheffield United or Middlesbrough
4 Barnsley
5 Manchester United
6 Portsmouth
7 West Bromwich Albion
8 Chelsea

Now it gets very interesting. Just where will I be off to next? Up North, North East or North West? Back to the Midlands or the South Coast? Along the M4 to Bristol? Or to either of the English or Welsh capitals?

Soon find out.