FC United of Manchester supporter Tom Stott ready for Hereford United's visit in FA Cup (From Hereford Times)

FC United of Manchester supporter Tom Stott ready for Hereford United's visit in FA Cup

6:20am Saturday 20th October 2012 in Sport By Ian Morgan

FC UNITED supporter Tom Stott says many fans still remember Manchester United’s narrow 1-0 FA Cup victory at Edgar Street 22 years ago.

Tom is now a volunteer at FC United and said that season, in 1989-90, was the start of the success story for Sir Alex Ferguson’s men.

However, the former Manchester United supporters’ club branch secretary felt he was being priced out of his season ticket at Old Trafford.

He got involved with FC United in 2005 when he joined fellow supporters in the protest against the Malcolm Glazer takeover at Old Trafford.

“The best thing is being involved,”

said Tom, who organises the coaches for away travel, runs the Back Issue programme stall on home match days and works in the FC United office.

“Being a member and co-owner of a fans-owned club means that I, and other supporters, get a say in decisions affecting the club like ticket prices, shirt sponsorship and other issues.

“FC United were formed as an alternative to modern football.

The prices at Premiership football means that many people can no longer afford to go to matches.

“At FC United we offer affordable football at £8 for adults and £2 for children. You can even purchase a season ticket for as little as £90 where we let supporters pay what they can afford.”

FC United reached the FA Cup second round two years ago when they defeated Rochdale and then drew at Brighton before being beaten at Gigg Lane.

“A couple of years ago when we beat Rochdale and then went on to play Brighton, we attracted much publicity which gained a lot of members for our club,” said Tom.The fans are looking forward to Saturday’s visit from Hereford for a FA Cup fourth qualifying round clash.

Should the match be drawn, the replay would take place at Edgar Street next Tuesday night.

Tom said: “It would be a great achievement if FC United can make the draw for the FA Cup first round. We expect a decent gate of over 2,000 people on Saturday.

“I never predict a loss so it will be an FC United win or otherwise we will be in Hereford on Tuesday.”

“Being United Reds, we have been brought up on the tradition of the FA Cup. Any run will have a financial benefit too as we look to build our own ground in Moston.”

He added: “As a fan-owned club, away fans are always given a warm reception at FC United – we welcome a decent sized following as it helps to improve the atmosphere that our crowd can create.”