Earlier this month saw one of the most famous results in Crawley Town’s history, stunning fans with their first ever victory over a top-flight team in the FA Cup.

The League Two side glided past Leeds United 3-0 in the third-round, despite the 62 places separating the teams. The emphatic upset is the biggest so far in this season’s tournament, and sent Crawley striding into the fourth round and a tie against Championships side Bournemouth.  

Steve Willis, the club’s Commercial Marketing Assistant and BA (Hons) Football Business and Marketing student at UCFB Wembley, said: “Our performance against Leeds United was outstanding and all the players should be proud of what they have achieved so far. At a time when many clubs in the Football League are struggling for match day revenue, the progression to the next stage will really help the club financially.”

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But it’s the clash with Bournemouth, who are pushing for promotion back to the Premier League, the club have swiftly turned their attention to. Crawley, whose team include reality TV star Mark Wright, are clear underdogs once more, a position that sits fine with them according to Steve.

He said: “We enjoy having no pressure or expectations on us, but I believe Crawley have what it takes to cause (another) upset! But Bournemouth are a strong side who have bundles of Premier League experience, so we’ll have to be on the top of our game once again.”

Steve added: “My role as Commercial Marketing Assistant has blown up with the tournament. I’m seeking new sponsorship for the football club and providing new innovative marketing ideas. Match day sponsorships are also something I deal with, having been in contact with many companies for our FA Cup games.”

Crawley’s history in the cup will provide a further boost for the men in red. The two previous times the club has played in the fourth round of the FA Cup they defied the odds to progress into the fifth round.

Having infamously exited the competition in a devastating defeat to Manchester United in 2011, Premier League opposition await the Sussex side once more if they can overcome Bournemouth on Saturday.

Steve said: “With the fifth round draw already decided, Crawley have all the incentive they need. If they can beat Bournemouth they will face either Fulham or Burnley. Crawley have already overachieved and have done their town proud, so a place in the next round would be the icing on the cake!”