"Image source, Getty Images If anyone required any convincing that the FA Cup still matters, this season's record-breaking third round provided all the necessary evidence. The FA Cup's rich 155-year history has been defined by magical moments, giant killings and edge-of-your-seat drama. It is a competition famous for producing stories worthy of retelling on stadium concourses around the country, and across generations."
"Only three times have more goals been scored in the third round of the FA Cup since that stage of the competition first featured 32 ties in 1925-26 (excluding 1945-46, when two-legged ties were played). In total, 124 goals were scored across Friday, Saturday and Sunday's 30 fixtures - an average of 4.1 goals per game - with two more ties still to be played,"
"Manchester City contributed more than their fair share to that tally by thrashing League One Exeter City 10-1 at Etihad Stadium. Premier League strugglers Wolves hit six past League Two Shrewsbury Town, while Chelsea, Burnley, Bristol City, Burton Albion and Norwich City all scored five goals. League One Mansfield Town edged a seven-goal thriller at Championship side Sheffield United, while Wrexham and Newcastle United both won penalty shootouts following entertaining 3-3 draws."
The third round produced 124 goals across 30 fixtures, averaging 4.1 goals per game, with two ties still outstanding. Only three previous third rounds since 1925-26 have seen more goals. Manchester City defeated Exeter City 10-1, Wolves scored six against Shrewsbury Town, and several clubs registered five-goal matches. Four hat-tricks were recorded, the most in 14 years. Wrexham and Newcastle advanced via penalty shootouts after 3-3 draws. Non-league Macclesfield achieved a notable upset over holders Crystal Palace. The removal of replays has led to squad rotation but high drama and giant-killings persisted.
Read at www.bbc.com
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