Will there be a replay? Prize money? All info on Bristol Rovers’ clash with Oxford

There have been a few rule changes ahead of Bristol Rovers’ FA Cup match with Oxford United
Bristol Rovers and Oxford United are reunited in the FA Cup. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)Bristol Rovers and Oxford United are reunited in the FA Cup. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Bristol Rovers and Oxford United are reunited in the FA Cup. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Bristol Rovers are in FA Cup action on Sunday as they travel to the Kassam Stadium to face Oxford United.

Joey Barton’s side are hoping to make it past the first round for the third consecutive season, though they face a difficult test against Karl Robinson’s men.

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Currently occupying the last play-off spot in League One whilst Rovers sit just under mid-table in the division below, the hosts are firm favourites for this match.

Add into the mix the two defeats inflicted on them in January and February, Oxford have the Gas’ number when it comes to recent meetings.

Ahead of the match, here is everything that you need to go ahead of what has always been a gritty encounter with the U’s.

A draw on Sunday could result in a fourth meeting in ten months for these two teams. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)A draw on Sunday could result in a fourth meeting in ten months for these two teams. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)
A draw on Sunday could result in a fourth meeting in ten months for these two teams. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

If the two teams draw will there be a replay?

Last season, FA Cup replays were scrapped to cater for any fixture arrangements in the event of any COVID outbreaks in squads.

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The Football Association though has reintroduced replays this season, which is a move to a more traditional domestic season.

Should the match finish level in the 90 minutes then the two teams will have to do it all over again, this time on Rovers’ turf.

The likely date for that would be a week later with the likely date of November 16, given they are in action on the Friday of that week against Tranmere Rovers.

How many substitutes can be made during the match?

For the FA Cup, the rules are slightly different to what we’re accustomed to in the Football League.

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More members of Barton’s squad could be called upon with an increase of substitutes and how many he can name.

In league matches, you are able to name seven substitutes whilst using three, but for the Cup it is nine.

From an increased bench, Barton could opt to introduce two more players, though he will have to be wise when he makes them, as there will be three opportunities to stop the match.

What is the prize money?

Given the effects of the pandemic, a windfall of money could do a lot for the club should they put a cup run together. If Rovers win this time they’ll receive £2,50 but if they lose they’ll still receive £750. The big money is reaching Round Three of the Cup where you could be drawn against a Premier League team, which could bring the television cameras and a sizeable away following to the ground.

How many fans can attend?

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The previous meetings between these two sides were played behind-closed-doors last season but after a loosening of restrictions from the UK Government, fans can once again attend matches.

For this match, Oxford have allocated up to 1,800 tickets for the 152 mile-round trip with prices ranging from £19 for an adult to £11 for an Under-18.

Up to 700 tickets have been sold, though they have been taken on general sale. It has been agreed though that fans planning a late trip can pay upon arrival.

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