FA Cup Final Survival Guide

FA Cup Final day is the one date in the calendar when football fanatics and less enthusiastic spectators alike unite and tune in together.

Monday 23 April 2018

Football fans come in all shades of devotion; from the committed, hardcore decked-out-in-full-kit
supporter to the more casual armchair observer, and everything in-between. But no matter how strong your allegiance to the beautiful game, there’s one day each May when all football fans come together – FA Cup Final day.

Premier League and Champions League glory might mean more to players these days, but to the fans (and non-fans), it’s the FA Cup Final that stops a nation in its tracks. From the revered and eagerly anticipated pre-match build up to the game itself, FA Cup Final day is the one football lovers always remember. It doesn’t even matter if your team isn’t playing.

This year, the 137th final falls on May 19 and it promises to be a cracker as Chelsea take on Manchester United. And if you can’t be at Wembley the next best thing is ensuring your home is match ready for the big day.

Leading high street retailer Robert Dyas has assembled a list of must-have items to make your FA Cup day a proper man of the match performance. From drinks and snacks to seating arrangements and audio-visual enhancements, no stone has been left unturned to make this FA Cup Final day as memorable as Jesse Lingard’s stunning volley to settle the 2016 final.

“FA Cup Final day is the one date in the calendar when football fanatics and less enthusiastic spectators alike unite and tune in together to see who will lift the iconic trophy,” says Robert Dyas’ Head of Marketing, Rebecca Waters. “With the Royal Wedding also falling on the same day, this definitely calls for a double celebration. We have gathered a handy list of items to make sure you are well prepped for the big day and that your house party really hits the back of the net!”

Getting match ready means getting the snacks in to keep the hungry hordes happy. This retro-themed popcorn maker (£16.99) will definitely do the job.

Some fresh and fun drink accompaniments are also required. You can’t go wrong with this nostalgic Slush Puppie with Two Syrups and Two Cup Packs with Straws (£59.99). Perfect for both kids and big kids.

Keeping the beers and fizzy pop cool is another must. This Kuhla Table Top Fridge – Football (£95.00) covers all bases. If you’re watching the match alfresco, transport chilled drinks easily with this trolley cool bag (£24.99).

This Vintage Company 7.6L Airtight Glass Drinks Dispenser (£24.99) provides a suitably stylish way to serve those soft drinks. And talking of drinks, don’t forget your tumblers (£4.49) – or wine glasses(£4.49).

Losing that crystal clear HD picture is the last thing you need when the match kicks off, so give your signal a boost with this One For All Amplified Indoor Aerial 42db (£24.99). If you have to follow the game on the move this Kitsound Pocket DAB Radio (£29.99) will ensure you won’t miss any of the action.

Got friends coming over to watch the big game? You might need some extra seating. Fear not, help is at hand. This deluxe reclining folding chair(£29.99) works well inside and outside as does this compact folding chair(£9.99) which is another versatile match winner.

Keeping the children occupied while you cheer your favourite team on is also worth bearing in mind. Get them in training for future FA Cup Finals of their own with this Charles Bentley 3-In-1 Target Shoot Sturdy Steel Frame Football Goal & Net (£44.99) (Online only). Scoring the winner at Wembley in 2030 awaits! This Charles Bentley 4-in-1 Multi Sports Table (£104.99) (Online only) combines table football, pool/snooker, table tennis and push hockey for hours of competitive fun.

Finally, for those family members or friends that just can’t bear football, maybe treat them to some well-deserved pampering. A HoMedics Foldaway Luxury Foot Spa (Online only) (£39.99) will score you some brownie points. As will the Lifemax Heated Back And Seat Massager (Online only) (£49.99).