The Football Association's decision to scrap FA Cup replays has caused a stir in the footballing world.

While the governing body faces criticism for not consulting most clubs, fans of smaller teams reminisce about the magic these replays provided.

Basingstoke Town had their two record-breaking crowds in 1997 as a result of FA Cup replays.

In the first round, they travelled to Wycombe Wanderers and recovered from two goals down to force a 2-2 draw.  The replay was watched by a record  5,000 crowd at the Camrose ground and courtesy of two goals from Paul Coombs the match ended 2-2 after extra time.

‘Stoke goalie Dean Beale was the hero in the penalty shoot-out and the club were on their way to Northampton Town.

Basingstoke took a big support to the Cobblers and a 1-1 draw was secured.  The replay was played in sub-zero temperatures in front of another 5,000 crowd and Sky television.

Sadly it ended in a penalty shootout defeat.

"Football clubs at the levels below the top tier need replays," said David Graham, a Basingstoke Town supporter who still has a very good memory of the 1997 games.

 "A good draw gives them the opportunity to raise in most cases much needed  finance.

"On Sunday, Coventry City took 34,000 supporters to Wembley for a memorable match with Manchester United. Hard to believe just a few years back they were almost on their uppers with issues with the ground owner. However, a compromise was reached and the team has progressed upwards and onwards.

"It would be nice to think the two co owners of the Camrose ground could sort things out and get the towns football ground restored.  Is that really too much to ask."