Chester completed their National League North season with a home 0-0 draw against Darlington on Saturday. The draw with the Quakers was the fifth successive home match without a Chester goal that saw the Blues finish the season in a disappointing tenth position, six points below Curzon Ashton in the final play-off place.

The alarming drop in home form over recent weeks cost Chester dear with successive defeats to Southport, South Shields and Alfreton Town proving vital, as Chester dropped from fourth place in early March following the draw at Scunthorpe United to near mid-table.

The scrapping of replays from the first round proper onwards denies clubs access to much-needed revenue from gate receipts and broadcast fees, but also means supporters and players will have far fewer opportunities to create the unforgettable memories for which the competition is so revered.

It is deeply concerning that these changes have been announced without consulting the 144 clubs who make up the English Football League and National League, nor the hundreds across the football pyramid who enter the FA Cup each season. This demonstrates an alarming lack of respect for the wider game and its fans, and reinforces the urgent need for a strong Independent Football Regulator.

We urge The FA and the Premier League to listen to the concerns of clubs and supporters, suspend the changes and commence a full and proper consultation with all stakeholders.”

Chester were beaten at third places Brackley Town on Saturday as their slim play-off hopes hang by a thread. Ben Tollitt gave Chester an ideal start with an opening goal on nine minutes. Goals either side of the break from Connor Hall gave The Saints the advantage and they wrapped up the three points with a Danny Newton goal 16 minutes from time.

Picture © Rick Matthews