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      Jamie Sterry plays on through HORROR head injury as Doncaster star sports golf-ball sized lump on face in FA Cup clash

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      JAMIE STERRY played through against Crystal Palace with a HORROR head injury.The Doncaster Rovers star was on the pitch against the Premier League outfit in the FA Cup fourth-round clash.Jamie Sterry played with a head injury against Crystal PalaceCredit: BBCA huge lump could be seen on his head when he was subbed offCredit: BBCSterry, 29, started the match at right-back but was forced off in the closing stages.The defender could be seen leaving the pitch with a golf-ball-sized lump on his forehead.He did not seem worried about the issue as he walked off and appeared to be in good spirits.Sterry was replaced by Tom Nixon as he then received treatment on the swelling.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe had been a regular for Grant McCann’s side this season with 27 appearances in League Two.The former Newcastle star has put in some brilliant performances, which have seen him rack up six assists.He was a part of the Magpies squad that won promotion to the Premier League in 2017.Meanwhile, Doncaster were unable to cause an upset as Palace ran out 2-0 winners.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSDaniel Munoz netted the opener in the first half before Justin Devenny made it two with a brilliant finish after the break.Palace star Will Hughes admitted that it was a relief to get through to the next round.Miron Muslic ‘very emotional’ after Plymouth knock Liverpool out of FA Cup He told the BBC: “It is an old cliche, but we knew it would be a tough game.”It was really important to get the first goal and we were able to see it out in the end.”It was a good night all-round.”Palace will now face Millwall in the next round of the FA Cup after the draw was done before the win over Doncaster.Fans who wanted to watch the game on TV were left fuming after realising that it was on the red button and not on terrestrial channels.FA Cup fifth round draw in fullHere are all the games from the next round in the FA Cup…Preston North End vs BurnleyAston Villa vs Cardiff CityDoncaster/Crystal Palace vs MillwallManchester United vs FulhamNewcastle vs Brighton and Hove AlbionBournemouth vs Wolverhampton WanderersManchester City vs PlymouthExeter City/Nottingham Forest vs Ipswich Town More

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      Doncaster 0 Crystal Palace 2: Eagles set up FA Cup fifth-round clash vs Millwall as Chilwell finally returns off bench

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      JUSTIN DEVENNY went from zero to hero for Crystal Palace and ended brave Doncaster Rovers’ FA Cup run.The Northern Ireland international produced one of the misses of the season only to bounce back and seal the 2-0 win and secure a home tie with Millwall.Justin Devenny went from zero to hero as he sent Crystal Palace into the FA Cup fifth roundCredit: GettyDaniel Munoz got himself on the score sheet early onCredit: ReutersBen Chilwell returned to the pitch after months frozen out at ChelseaCredit: ReutersIt was a valiant performance at home by Doncaster by the Premier League side made their quality countCredit: ReutersDaniel Munoz gave the Eagles a first-half advantage before the 21-year-old’s blooper from six yards out with the goal gaping.Though he showed brilliant composure just moments later to lob home and seal a fifth-round South London derby.There were 58 places between the Premier League side and the lowest-ranked club left in the competition.Though it was Oliver Glasner’s men adopting tactics more accustomed to League Two in the early exchanges.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd if you’ve got a weapon like Chris Richards’ long-throw then nobody should be worried what modern day football snobs think.Three times the American defender hurled it into the box in a row but Teddy Sharman-Lowe managed to clear the danger away from the lurking Jean-Philippe Mateta with a strong punch.The tin foil cups were out in force around the jam-packed Eco-Power Stadium, and they were being waved with a bit more belief after Donny carved out the first real opportunity.Good work down the left found veteran Billy Sharp, and he laid it off for on-loan Manchester United winger Ethan Ennis to tamely fire straight at Matt Turner.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSPalace continued to have most of the ball but they were finding the defence a tough nut to crack, with every clearance, block or tackle producing a roar from the home crowd.But for all of that resilience, they eventually came unstuck after being caught out by an impressive set-piece routine – although the unfortunate Sharp was left cursing his luck.BBC FA Cup coverage interrupted by angry fan calling Dion Dublin a ‘w—-r’ as pundit says ‘I’ll take him outside’Daichi Kamada looked set to try a curling effort from 25 yards but instead hit it low into the feet of Mateta.The striker controlled, spun and shot only to see his strike bounce back off the post.Sharp desperately turned to try and clear, only for the ball to hit his right shin and land perfectly for Munoz to tap home from close-range.Luke Molyneux, looking to take his Doncaster goal tally to 14 this term, cut in from wide on the right but his thumping strike whizzed narrowly wide.It could, and should, have been game over moments after half-time but Devenny was left red-faced.Mateta put it on a plate for him to tap home from six yards out but he got his connection all wrong as his shot nearly went out for a throw.Joseph Olowu blocked Mateta as Palace’s quickfire start continued but you could feel a second was coming and this time Devenny made no mistake.Will Hughes delivered a perfect floating pass just over George Broadent’s head that Devenny expertly lobbed past Sharman-Lowe.Doncaster threw on forward Joe Ironside, who fired Cambridge United to a famous win at Newcastle three years ago, but he could not rekindle any magic although Owen Bailey did force Turner into action late on.It’s back to the promotion push for Grant McCann’s side with a trip to Grimsby Town on Saturday while Glasner can continue to dream of Wembley.Glasner said afterwards: “Pleased with the win today. Difficult circumstances with the pitch and the players did well most of the time. We scored nice goals.”On Devenny’s goal, he said: “You miss a chance, next one will come. He stayed positive and scored an amazing one.”And with Millwall up next, Glasner added: “I am told it will be a big derby. But it is good playing at home and it will be a great game for our fans.“They will be very aggressive but playing at home to a Championship side means we have to win.“I want to go to Wembley.”Opposite number McCann said: “It was always going to be tough.READ MORE SUN STORIES“This gave a flavour of what this club is about. We ultimately feel this club is a Championship club and it is our job to move us through the leagues.”Meanhwile Ben Chilwell made his return to action as a half-time substitute having not played since coming off the bench for Chelsea against Barrow in the Carabao Cup in September. More

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      ‘Makes zero sense’ – Fans raging as Doncaster v Crystal Palace NOT on TV as viewers tune in to BBC to find EastEnders on

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      FOOTBALL fans have been left raging after finding Doncaster Rovers’ clash against Crystal Palace was not on TV.The League Two outfit host the Premier League side in the fourth round of the FA Cup tonight.Doncaster Rovers host Crystal Palace in the FA CupCredit: ReutersMany fans were keen to tune in to the fixture but were left stunned at the BBC.After flicking on the channel they discovered the football was not on offer and soap opera Eastenders was on instead.They took to social media to vent their frustration at the broadcaster.One posted: “How is Doncaster vs Palace not on tv?”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLA second commented: “Palace ain’t on BBC it’s Eastenders.”A third wrote: “Moving the Palace vs Doncaster game to Monday just to not show the game on live tv makes zero sense.”A fourth said: “Monday nights without football are awful.”Despite complaints, the match was not shown on terrestrial television.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut it could be watched by those who had access to BBC iPlayer with the game also accessible via the red button.The fourth-round fixture was moved to the Monday night in order to feature on television.Fuming Ange Postecoglou covers face with hands as he loses it over reporter’s question after Tottenham’s FA Cup KOFA Cup fifth round draw in fullHere are all the games from the next round in the FA Cup…Preston North End vs BurnleyAston Villa vs Cardiff CityDoncaster/Crystal Palace vs MillwallManchester United vs FulhamNewcastle vs Brighton and Hove AlbionBournemouth vs Wolverhampton WanderersManchester City vs PlymouthExeter City/Nottingham Forest vs Ipswich TownThe draw for the FA Cup fifth round has already taken place with fans claiming it was ‘rigged’.This was down to Manchester City drawing Plymouth Argyle at home in the next stage.There is still one more game to come in the fourth round as Nottingham Forest face Exeter City tomorrow night. More

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      ‘Extremely disappointed’ – John Eustace activates shock contract clause to hold talks with Blackburn’s EFL rivals

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      BLACKBURN are “extremely disappointed” with manager John Eustace after he prepared to leave them for rivals Derby CountyEustace has activated a shock release clause in his contract to hold talks with the fellow Championship side.Blackburn Rovers have slammed manager John Eustace after he activated a release clause in his contract to allow him to speak to DerbyCredit: GettyEustace played for Derby, who sacked manager Paul Warne on Friday, for two full seasons at the end of his careerCredit: GettyEustace, 45, has been in charge of Rovers for a year, with the stunning news coming to light one year and one day following his original appointment.The clause in his deal has allowed him to open negotiations over a possible move to the Rams, who he played for for two years.A damning statement from the Championship promotion hopefuls said: “Blackburn Rovers can confirm that head coach John Eustace has requested permission to speak with another Championship club, following the activation of a clause in his contract.”The club is extremely disappointed by John Eustace’s request to hold discussions with another club at such a crucial stage of the season, but this has now been reluctantly granted.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”With significant investment being made during the January transfer window, with six new additions, several of whom impressed during yesterday’s FA Cup fourth round tie against Wolves, the board and ownership feel the club are in a good position to challenge for one of the play-off places this season.”With the squad bolstered, key players returning from injury and Rovers currently in a strong position in the Championship, the club and players remain focused on achieving the best possible outcome this season.”The club will make no further comment at this time.”According to talkSPORT, Eustace has felt a lack of support from the Ewood Park outfit’s owners, prompting him to seek a move away.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThis has led him to Pride Park, where Eustace – who was sacked at Birmingham before being replaced by Wayne Rooney – is reported to have already accepted the Derby job, although the Championship side is not named in the club statement.The release clause in his contract is said to be valued between £500,000 and £700,000.Former Championship star now a train driver in ‘new career to last the rest of my life’ A win for Derby – who sacked Paul Warne on Friday – in their next match against Oxford United is likely to take them out of the relegation zone.Eustace had insisted he was “happy” at Blackburn, but admitted he would need to speak to the owners if an official approach had been made.He said: “I’ve heard rumours that there’s been an official approach, so that’s something I will have to discuss with the owners.”I’ve been linked with other teams throughout the season so we’ll have to wait and see.”Blackburn sit in sixth place in the Championship with a two-point cushion to dropping out of the play-offs. A run of one win in their last five has threatened to derail their season.Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

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      FA Cup 5th round draw in full LIVE: Man Utd land tricky tie while Man City host 4th round giant killers – latest updates

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      THE draw for the FA Cup fifth round has concluded on the One Show.Manchester United will host Premier League rivals Fulham at Old Trafford.Manchester City welcome fourth round giant killers Plymouth Argyle to the Etihad.Newcastle take on Brighton in a blockbuster all-Prem clash at St James’ Park.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Shock ‘n draw as psychic supporter predicted pairingsOne supporter’s uncanny prediction of the FA Cup fifth-round pairings has made him a sudden social media hit.The supporter, whose profile describes him as a deputy bar manager in London, made his mystic X posting at 7.25pm last night.That’s almost 24 hours to the minute BEFORE this evening’s draw.He wrote: “Two questions for the FA Cup 5th round draw tomorrow.  Which Prem team do United get drawn against? Do City get Plymouth home or away?”Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim was in charge of Sporting Lisbon when facing Pep Guardiola in November and they could yet meet in the FA Cup this seasonFast forward, and United were duly paired against Fulham at Old Trafford – and Argyle learnt they WILL face Man City, at the Etihad.One fan responded to that mystic Manchester prediction by posting: after the draw: “You should have put a bet on that!”Another added: Fulham and Home. Did you fix the draw ?And a third message marvelling at the accurate assessment read: “Hang on…… now do the lottery numbers.”However, the fan with the predicting talent returned to the debate with a shocking confession.He wrote: “Ironically, when I put a bet on something, it’s practically guaranteed to not happen!”Copy linkCopiedRaising a Cup of Clarets and whine Burnley’s amazing Turf Moor jinx in cup draws continued.The promotion-chasing Clarets were paired away – at North-West Championship rivals Preston for a tie dripping with nostalgiaAnd one fan pointed out on X: “Burnley’s last NINE cup games have all been away from Turf Moor. Imagine the odds of that!”Copy linkCopiedGlasner says Palace MUST beat MillwallOliver Glasner has bigged up Crystal Palace’s chances of winning the FA Cup.And he whipped up the pressure on his Eagles by claiming victory was the only option in their fifth-round derby at home at home Millwall.Palace won 2-0 at Doncaster tonight, reasonably comfortably, and with Chelsea loanee Ben Chilwell coming on for his debut. Glasner said of the draw for the next round: “I am told it will be a big derby. But it is good playing at home and it will be a great game for our fans.“They will be very aggressive but playing at home to a Championship side means we have to win. I want to go to Wembley.””As long as you are in the competition you can win it. We will go for it. I don’t know if it will work but we will go for it, definitely.”Copy linkCopied’4 big clubs get home ties…. Nothing to see here’One fan has summed up the mood of suspicion around some sections of social medial after the FA Cup draw.Plenty of supporters have fun, claiming draws are rigged. And tonight was no exception.But some observers clearly believe their conspiracy theories.There’s been a stream of them all night. And one fan in particular appeared to speak for many.He noted that Man City and United, plus Newcastle and Aston Villa, have all avoided away trips. In fact, Prem high-fliers Bournemouth are also at home against struggling Wolves, while Crystal palace host Millwall.And if Nottingham Forest win at Exeter on Tuesday night, they will host Ipswich.The fan posted: “4 biggest clubs get home ties. Nothing to see here.”Another supporter responded: “This is no longer a draw… City getting easy ties always.”Preston North End vs BurnleyAston Villa vs Cardiff CityCrystal Palace vs MillwallManchester United vs FulhamNewcastle vs Brighton and Hove AlbionBournemouth vs Wolverhampton WanderersManchester City vs PlymouthExeter City/Nottingham Forest vs Ipswich TownCopy linkCopiedPalace through – as Euro giants eye starletEXCLUSIVE: Crystal Palace starlet Jesse Derry is being chased by FOUR European giants, writes PHIL CADDEN.Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus and Atletico Madrid have all registered their interest in the Eagles winger, 17, who recently turned down a professional Selhurst Park deal.Derry, an England Under-19 international, is the son of Palace cult hero Shaun and SunSport understands there are concerns over a lack of pathway at the club.The youngster was Palace’s U18s Player of the Year last season after scoring 16 goals in 22 appearances.He also scored for the U21s against RB Leipzig last month.But Derry has not signed the pro deal which has put Euro clubs – who have sent scouts to watch the teen star – on red alert.And that will be a major blow for Palace, who regard academy prospect Derry as a star student.The south Londoners will be due compensation from whoever secures his signature once his academy deal expires in the summer.Copy linkCopiedLowdown on what’s coming upCrystal Palace’s win at Doncaster tonight means there’s just one fourth-round tie remaining. Exeter are hunting a giantkilling at home to Nottingham Forest tomorrow night – with Ipswich to visit the winners.After that of course we’ll know the complete fifth-round draw.Fifth-round draw:Preston North End vs BurnleyAston Villa vs Cardiff CityCrystal Palace vs MillwallManchester United vs FulhamNewcastle vs Brighton and Hove AlbionBournemouth vs Wolverhampton WanderersManchester City vs PlymouthExeter City/Nottingham Forest vs Ipswich TownCopy linkCopiedSeeing SterrsDoncaster right-back Jamie Sterry played through against Crystal Palace with a HORROR head injury.The ex-Newcastle right-back eventually went off near the end of tonight’s 2-0 FA Cup defeat to Crystal Palace with a golf-ball-sized lump on his forehead. Credit: BBCSterry, 29, did not seem worried about the issue as he walked off apparently in good spirits.He was replaced by Tom Nixon as he received treatment on the swelling.Copy linkCopiedChil wins after stormy spell at BluesBen Chilwell played all of the second half as the full-back came on for his Crystal Palace debut on loan from Chelsea.The 21-cap Englishman, 28, had only placed once before this season – for his parent club in the Carabao Cup.Ben Chilwell was introduced for the second periodBut he looked assured in Palace’s 2-0 FA Cup fourth-round win at Doncaster.Indeed, Chilwell looked delighted and relieved just to be playing again.Chilwell looked to have enjoyed his actionAnd he was all smiles at the end with Palace’s second scorer Justin Devenny.Now Chilwell could be in line for a tasty derby role in the next round – as Palace will host Millwall.Chilwell and Justin Devenny celebrate victoryCopy linkCopiedFan’s amazing Mystic Manc draw predictionOne supporter’s uncanny prediction of the FA Cup fifth-round pairings has made him a sudden social media hit.The supporter, whose profile describes him as a deputy bar manager in London, made his mystic X posting at 7.25pm last night.That’s almost 24 hours to the minute BEFORE this evening’s draw.He wrote: “Two questions for the FA Cup 5th round draw tomorrow.  Which Prem team do United get drawn against? Do City get Plymouth home or away?”Fast forward, and United were duly paired against Fulham at Old Trafford – and Argyle learnt they WILL face Man City, at the Etihad.One fan responded to that mystic Manchester prediction by posting: after the draw: “You should have put a bet on that!”Another added: Fulham and Home. Did you fix the draw ?And a third message marvelling at the accurate assessment read: “Hang on…… now do the lottery numbers.”However, the fan with the predicting talent returned to the debate with a shocking confession.He wrote: “Ironically, when I put a bet on something, it’s practically guaranteed to not happen!”Copy linkCopiedResult: Doncaster 0-2 Crystal PalaceThe Eagles had the edge in finishing and class – but it was a battle.Daniel Munoz’s rebound finish on 31 minutes and Justin Devenny’s lob 10 minutes after the break booked a home last-16 derby against Millwall. Palace had 60% of the possession and 15 of the 25 goal attempts.Copy linkCopiedEagles clawing their way to South London derbyCrystal Palace are having to show more graft than craft as they battle to hold onto their 2-0 lead at Doncaster.But with eight minutes left, Rovers’ bustling late pressure isn’t creating many clear opportunities… so far.The winners will visit the Eagles South London neighbours Millwall.Latest: Doncaster 0-2 Palace Copy linkCopiedRecap of ‘worst’ or ‘most fixed draw’ ever!The FA Cup fifth-round draw hit a new low as the “worst” or “most fixed” one ever… according to some fans.It’s also chance for Plymouth to complete a majestic double of beating the Prem leaders, Liverpool, then the reigning top-flight champs, Man City.There are also three all-Prem clashes.Whatever your view, here’s how the pairings came out earlier tonight:Preston North End vs BurnleyAston Villa vs Cardiff CityDoncaster/Crystal Palace vs MillwallManchester United vs FulhamNewcastle vs Brighton and Hove AlbionBournemouth vs Wolverhampton WanderersManchester City vs PlymouthExeter City/Nottingham Forest vs Ipswich TownCopy linkCopiedGOAL! Doncaster 0-2 Crystal PalaceJustin Devenny ruined Rovers’ best spell of the match by punishing some dozy defending.The Northern Ireland midfielder, 21, latched onto a long ball angled through the middle by Will Hughes to lob the Eagles 2-0 up on 55 minutes.Copy linkCopiedAncelotti gives Pep the ultimate tributeMan City are surely happy with this evening’s draw at home to Plymouth – even if Argyle have already KO’d Brentford and Man City.And ahead of tomorrow’ s Champions League play-off at home to Real Madrid, the visitors’ boss has given opposite number Pep Guardiola an incredible tribute.Ancelotti said: “They are one of the best teams in Europe, they have the best manager out there so I think it is the most difficult game we could have faced, regardless of City’s form. “Guardiola has always tried to play well, brought a great deal to football in terms of attacking play and bringing the ball out from the back. “He has been an innovator and continues to be and I continue to believe in him.“It’s a nightmare preparing for games against him because he always has ideas that make you think.”Copy linkCopiedYet Moor Turf luck for the ClaretsPoor Burnley can have a home groan after an extraordinary stat emerged from tonight’s draw.The promotion chasers were paired away from Turf Moor – at Championship rivals Preston in a nostalgic meeting between two clubs steeped in FA Cup history.But one fan pointed out on X: “Burnley’s last NINE cup games have all been away from Turf Moor. Imagine the odds of that!”Copy linkCopiedBack under way – Doncaster 0-1 Crystal PalaceRovers are trying to create some early momentum in the second half.Copy linkCopiedHT: Doncaster 0-1 Crystal PalaceRovers are a little unlucky to trail to Munoz’s 31st-minute opener.Rovers’ 13-goal top scorer Luke Molyneux has troubled Palace. although the Prem visitors have mainly dominated possession.Doncaster have hit the post as well as working so hard all around the pitch.Munoz pounced following a deflected free-kickCopy linkCopiedRubbing Salf in the woundsOne fan had his own sarcastic interpretation of “FA Cup magic”.He contrasted the draws so far this season of the two Manchester giants.He pointed out United have been paired with three Prem clubs.In contrast City have yet to face a top-flight opponent this season.But Pep Guardiola’s men working their way up through the divisions – – with League Two Salford first, L1 Leyton Orient next and, to come, Championship side Plymouth.Intriguingly the fan chose to illustrate his point with a snap of ex-United boss Jose Mourinho looking smug.Mourinho did win the FA Cup once – but with Chelsea in 2006-07.Copy linkCopiedPalace take leadDaniel Munoz scrambled Crystal Palace in front at Doncaster Rovers in the fourth round on 31 minutes.He gobbled up his third goal of the season with a rebound from a clever free-kick.Copy linkCopiedPlymouth to ‘have fun’ chasing ‘greatest double ever’Fans reckon Plymouth will “have fun” trying to complete the “greatest 2 games in FA Cup history”.The Championship’s bottom side topped beating Brentford in round three by sinking Prem leaders Liverpool yesterday.Now Argyle hope to make it a treble of top-flight victims by winning at reigning Prem champs Man City.One supporter responded to the draw by posting: “Good luck! This’ll be fun!”Another wrote: “If you knock out Liverpool and City, it would be the greatest 2 games in FA cup history for any club!”And a third said: “Playing a hat-trick of prem side,s best FA Cup run of games ever…”Meanwhile, with many fans peeved to see Prem giants like Liverpool playing weakened sides, one observer urged Plymouth: “Do football a favour guys.”Copy linkCopiedTonight’s action as Rovers host PalaceWill there be another shock tonight?Doncaster Rovers are hoping to ruin Crystal Palace’s hopes of a fifth round South London derby at home to MillwallGeorge Broadbent take on Palace midfielder Justin DevennyCredit: PAThe League Two promotion chasers have just fended off THREE long throws in a row from Chris Richards.But veteran striker Billy Sharp then spearheaded a useful attack for Rovers.We’ll have updates on major incidents from the Eco-Power Stadium.Ethan Ennis and Billy Sharp take on Palace’s Daniel MunozCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedHow about this for a heavyweight complaintHere’s another draw viewer getting ‘a touch’ angry’ with how it turned out.And so far it’s the best conspiracy theory – or at least ‘conspiracy question’ – of the lot … if there is such a thing as conspiracy question.He wrote: “Another rigged draw, why do those drawing the away sides against big clubs not pick the 1st ball up they touch?? “They swap it for a heavier one. Burnley v PNE means one out from the Championship. City miraculously get Plymouth at home. And we get United away again (shock).”So for him the draw was not worth the… weight.Copy linkCopiedFifth round is not the Special One…You can’t blame BBC’s The One show for the fifth-round draw.But guest Theo Walcott, a three-time FA Cup winner with Arsenal, and Alex Scott, who did the trick seven times with the Gunners in the Women’s FA Cup Cup, were the ones who picked the balls out.Alex Scott helped make the drawAnd so far they are the only ones fans have not rounded on afterwards amid conspiracy theories!As the “rigged” rants piled up, one fan added: “Man City always gets easy draws.”And one Fulham just fan “knew” his side would get an all-Prem clash at Man Uutd.He wrote: “At this point I’m starting to think that the FA Cup draw is rigged. Knew we were going to get these lot and that Plymouth would get City.Here’s how The One Show warmed up for the drawCopy linkCopiedIt’s rig-diculous! Fans launch draw onslaughtOnly one thing is more traditional in the FA Cup than shock results.And that’s fans suggesting the draw is “rigged”.This time that verdict was as emphatic as ever following the eight pairings for the fifth-round.Man City manager Pep Guardiola’s expression might be a little bit like this if he read fans’ reaction to the drawCredit: ReutersOne fan wrote: “Absolute fix these FA Cup Draws. (Man) City get a nice easy draw at home.”A second wrote: “City getting Plymouth? oh the FA Cup is RIGGED.”A third commented: “Fix For City.” A fourth said: “City at home to Plymouth is the most rigged draw.”A fifth claimed: “Of course City have Plymouth…rigged.”And another added: “CITY VS PLYMOUTH THIS DRAW IS RIGGED.”Copy linkCopied’Worst draw ever’ – surely not!One cheeky reaction post to the FA Cup draw stirred up plenty of banter.Paddy Power reckoned: “It’s official. That’s the worst FA Cup draw in history.”One fan quickly agreed, calling it “Horrendous” and a third claimed: “Not a single good match wtf”.But a fourth pointed out: “South London derby” – a reference to Crystal Palace facing Millwall.Meanwhile, one observer – who was just possibly from the West Country – had a solution to why not all supporters might be excited by the pairings.He wrote: “Because Argyle knocking all the good sides out . Sorry lads.”And how about this for a prediction from another supporter that was somehow both boring yet also a little bit intriguing.He wrote: “Eight home wins.”Copy linkCopied More

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      ‘This draw is RIGGED’ fume fans as giant killers Plymouth land nightmare tie and United host Fulham in FA Cup 5th round

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      THE draw for the fifth round of the FA Cup has been made – and fans are not happy.The iconic tournament lived up to expectations during the previous round with plenty of drama.The FA Cup fifth round draw has been madeCredit: GettyFans have claimed the draw was fixedCredit: BBCMany supporters fumed as they reacted on social mediaCredit: BBCPlymouth dumped Liverpool out in a famous victoryCredit: AlamyBrighton made it through with a win over ChelseaCredit: GettyChelsea and Tottenham both suffered early exits to Aston Villa and Brighton.Plymouth Argyle pulled off the shock result of the round as they dumped out eight-time winners Liverpool at Home Park on Sunday.Ahead of the fourth round clash between Crystal Palace and Doncaster Rovers, the draw for the next round was made.Holders Manchester United were handed the tricky tie of hosting Fulham at Old Trafford.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLPlymouth, however, were handed another tough task as they will travel to the Etihad to take on Manchester City in the next round.And fans were left fuming on social media as they claimed the draw was “rigged”.One posted: “Absolute fix these FA Cup Draws. City get a nice easy draw at home.”A second wrote: “City getting Plymouth? oh the FA Cup is RIGGED.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA third commented: “Fix For City.”A fourth said: “City at home to Plymouth is the most rigged draw.”Plymouth pull off FA Cup shock by beating Premier League leaders LiverpoolFA Cup fifth round draw in fullHere are all the games from the next round in the FA Cup…Preston North End vs BurnleyAston Villa vs Cardiff CityDoncaster/Crystal Palace vs MillwallManchester United vs FulhamNewcastle vs Brighton and Hove AlbionBournemouth vs Wolverhampton WanderersManchester City vs PlymouthExeter City/Nottingham Forest vs Ipswich TownA fifth claimed: “Of course city have Plymouth…rigged.”Another added: “CITY VS PLYMOUTH THIS DRAW IS RIGGED.”Other key ties from the next round include a Lancashire derby between Preston North End and Burnley.The Seagulls will follow up their win over Chelsea with a long trip up north to take on Newcastle United.Despite the draw being completed, Exeter City and Nottingham Forest don’t meet until tomorrow night.Trophy droughtsHere’s the time without silverware for the remaining clubs in the FA Cup…Manchester United: One yearManchester City: One yearAston Villa: 29 yearsNottingham Forest: 35 yearsIpswich: 44 yearsWolves: 45 yearsBurnley: 65 yearsNewcastle: 70 yearsPreston: 87 yearsCardiff City: 98 yearsMillwall: N/ABrighton: N/AExeter: N/AFulham: N/APlymouth: N/ABournemouth: N/ADoncaster: N/ACrystal Palace: N/A More

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      Women’s football star ‘violates rival’s intimacy’ with sick gesture and vile comment during on-pitch scuffle

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      A SPANISH woman footballer is at the centre of a storm after touching a rival’s private parts and appearing to say ‘Have you got a ‘d**k?’ during a brief pitch bust-up.TV cameras clearly picked up the moment Barcelona defender Mapi Leon deliberately touched Espanyol footballer Daniela Caracas’ genitals as the alleged sex assault victim prepared to defend a corner during a fiercely-contested derby match yesterday.Barcelona’s Mapi Leon clashed with Daniela CaracasCredit: Liga F via X formerly TwitterShe appeared to reach and touch Caracas below the beltlineCredit: Liga F via X formerly TwitterEspanyol have slammed the Barcelona starCredit: RexSpanish media and social media amateur lip readers reported the slur 29-year-old Leon, capped more than 50 times by her national team, fired off at Colombian-born Caracas during a brief push-and-shove struggle before and after the extraordinary crotch grab seemed to be ‘Tienes picha?The offensive expression would translate into English as ‘Have you got a d**k?’Barcelona’s city rivals Espanyol today released an official statement criticising Mapi Leon’s actions and vowing to support Daniela if she decided to press charges.The Catalan club said in a statement, calling Mapi Leon by her full name Maria Pilar Leon: “We would like to express our total discontent and condemnation of the events that took place yesterday during the derby match between RCD Espanyol and Barcelona FC at the Dani Jarque stadium.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“It is an action that we consider unacceptable and that should not go unnoticed.“During the match, the FC Barcelona player María Pilar Leon, in the middle of a struggle with our player, Daniela Caracas, made a gesture that violated the player’s intimacy.“At the time Daniela was unable to react because of the impact caused by the situation.“Later on when she assimilated what happened she became aware of the seriousness of the gesture, but chose not to react angrily to avoid a disciplinary sanction and harm the team.Most read in Football“In addition to what happened on the pitch, there has been a regrettable reaction on social media, where our player has been the target of insults from hundreds of profiles.“We are concerned that, instead of focusing on the act itself, part of the media attention has been diverted to other issues unrelated to its seriousness.Football teams that controversially changed their badge“RCD Espanyol defends our player and condemns any act that threatens the integrity of the players on the pitch.“We firmly believe in respect and sportsmanship as fundamental values in football and we hope that this type of situation will be treated with the seriousness it deserves.“Furthermore, we have made the club’s legal services available to our player should she wish to take legal action.“Likewise, as RCD Espanyol has done on previous occasions, we wish to express our rejection of any form of violence, whether physical or verbal in the world of football.“Sport should be a place of respect and coexistence, and we condemn any attitude that encourages hatred or aggression on and off the pitch.”Barcelona and the player at the centre of the controversy have not yet offered any official reaction.Espanyol lost 2-0 to the league leaders, with a 73rd-minute goal from Graham Hansen and another three minutes later by Salma Paralluelo.Mapi Leon was one of the footballers who said she didn’t want to play for her country again unless there were structural changes in the Spanish FA following the scandal unleashed by the kiss Luis Rubiales gave Jenni Hermoso after the 2023 women’s World Cup and his initial refusal to resign.The former Spanish FA president is currently on trial for sexual assault and coercion over the kiss Jenni says was unwanted.Critics were accusing Mapi Leon of double standards today.One said: “This is really serious. I hope it finishes in a court of law.”Another said: “I hope they take measures like they did with Rubiales.“A sexual assault is where there’s no consent right?”READ MORE SUN STORIESVinnie Jones famously squeezed Paul Gascoigne’s lunchbox during Wimbledon’s 0-0 draw with Newcastle in February 1988.It was caught on camera and went on to become one of the most iconic photographs in the history of English football. More

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      John Tudor dead aged 78: Newcastle lead tributes as Toon legend and Malcolm McDonald’s strike partner passes away

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      FORMER footballer John Tudor has died at the age of 78 after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease.Tudor starred for the likes of Newcastle and Sheffield United during his playing days.John Tudor has died at the age of 78Credit: PA:Empics SportHe played for the Magpies between 1971 and 1976Credit: PAHe scored 72 goals in 219 appearances for the clubCredit: Times Newspapers LtdDuring his time at Newcastle, he impressed with 72 goals in 219 appearances.He made up an important half of the strike partnership with legend Malcolm McDonald.Tudor helped the Toon reach the final of the FA Cup in 1974, only to be beaten by Liverpool.The club have paid tribute to their former players with a touching statement.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLIt read: “Newcastle are saddened to hear of the death of popular former player John Tudor at the age of 78.”Best known for striking up a prolific partnership with Malcolm Macdonald – and for his terrace chant, ‘Hallelujah, John Tudor’.The Ilkeston-born forward scored 72 goals in 219 appearances for the Magpies in all competitions.”The club’s thoughts are with John’s family and friends at this difficult time.”Most read in FootballTudor’s former clubs Sheffield United and Coventry City have also paid tribute.The Blades wrote: “All at Sheffield United are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player John Tudor, aged 78. Rest in peace, John.”Coventry added: “Coventry City are saddened to learn of the death of our former player John Tudor.He passed away after a battle with Alzheimer’s diseaseCredit: CCFPA”John sadly passed away on Sunday at the age of 78 after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease.”Our thoughts and condolences are with John’s family and friends at this sad time.”Tudor’s fans have also paid tribute to him on social media.One posted: “Sad to hear of the death of John Tudor of Coventry, Sheffield Utd, Newcastle and Stoke fame. Probably most famous for his partnership at Newcastle with Malcolm Macdonald. Very underrated by any who didn’t actually see him play.”A second wrote: “RIP Newcastle United Great John Tudor. So sad to hear the news of this wonderful man’s passing.”A third commented: “Very sorry to hear that the great John Tudor has passed away.”A fourth said: “Another 70’s SJP favourite gone….. RIP John Tudor.”Another added: “RIP Newcastle United Legend John Tudor.”Tudor retired from playing after a two-year spell at Belgian side KAA Gent in 1979.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe then became a publican in Derbyshire and Northumberland before moving to the US.While across the Atlantic, he worked in coaching at Tonka United in Minnesota. More