Gillingham chairman Brad Galinson condemns a “closed door meeting” as FA Cup replays from the first round onwards are to be scrapped from next season – Fans’ group call it a “disgraceful decision”

Gillingham chairman Brad Galinson has added his voice to the growing anger at the decision to scrap FA Cup replays from next season.

Replays in the FA Cup competition will no longer take place from the first round onwards as from next season, a change that has come about as part of a new six-year agreement between the FA and the Premier League.

Fans and clubs reacted with anger at the shock announcement. Replays in the competition have for so long brought additional revenue and many memorable matches for supporters.

Gills chairman Brad Galinson said: “The FA Cup is the oldest national football tournament in the world, spanning over 150 years.

“It is made up of less than 3% PL teams.

“Nonetheless, the governing body chose to change material rules in a closed door meeting for their 30 pieces of silver. Shame on them.”

Gillingham’s managing director Joe Comper has also criticised the decision, saying: “It’s a sorry state of affairs when a small minority at the top of the game can dictate to everyone else the direction of travel for the greatest cup competition in the world.

“It can only lead you to believe the decision to take away replays has been made by people that have never felt what it’s like to experience the emotional rollercoaster that is battling out a draw, then doing it all again on a Tuesday night a few weeks later to see who progresses. Yes, there’s financial benefits, but more so it’s the memories made over a two legged battle.

“For me it’s 2002, Crawley going from the 2nd Qual round to the 1st round proper. Travelling to Tiverton with my dad, mum and brother to watch a nail biting 1-1 draw. Back at the Broadfield for the replay, 2-0 down, coming back to win it 3-2. A local PE teacher scoring the winner.

“Foo