FA Cup Third Round: Gillingham FC Set to Face Blackpool FC
FA Cup Third Round Draw Pits League One Rivals Gillingham FC and Blackpool FC Against Each Other
The FA Cup third round draw has thrown up an intriguing matchup between League One rivals Gillingham FC and Blackpool FC. The two sides will meet at Priestfield Stadium on Saturday, January 7th, 2023, in what promises to be a highly competitive and entertaining match. This is an early round encounter between two of the most in-form sides in the division.
Gillingham FC has been in excellent form in recent weeks, having won four of their last five matches in all competitions. They currently sit 10th in the League One table, just two points outside the playoff places. Blackpool FC, meanwhile, are 13th in the standings, but they have also been in good form lately, having won three of their last four matches.
Both teams will be looking to make a deep run in the FA Cup, and they will know that a win in this third-round tie would give them a great chance of doing so. The match is sure to be a close and exciting affair, and it is one that neither side will want to lose.
A Look at the History Between Gillingham FC and Blackpool FC
Gillingham FC and Blackpool FC have a long and storied history, dating back to their first meeting in 1896. The two sides have met on numerous occasions over the years, with Blackpool FC holding a slight edge in the head-to-head record. Blackpool FC have won 30 of the 67 meetings between the two sides, while Gillingham FC have won 29. The other 8 matches have ended in draws.
The most recent meeting between the two sides was in the 2021/22 season, with Blackpool FC winning 2-1 at Bloomfield Road. Gillingham FC will be looking to get revenge for that defeat when they host Blackpool FC in the FA Cup third round.
Key Players to Watch in This Fixture
There are several key players to watch in this fixture, including:
- Vadaine Oliver (Gillingham FC): The experienced striker is Gillingham FC's leading scorer this season with 10 goals in all competitions.
- Jordan Graham (Gillingham FC): The winger has been in excellent form for Gillingham FC this season, providing 6 assists in all competitions.
- Josh Bowler (Blackpool FC): The winger is Blackpool FC's most creative player and will be looking to provide assists for his team's strikers.
- Jerry Yates (Blackpool FC): The striker is Blackpool FC's leading scorer this season with 9 goals in all competitions.
These are just a few of the key players to watch in this fixture. With so much quality on show, it is sure to be an entertaining match.
How to Watch the Match
The match will be televised live on BT Sport. Kick-off is at 12:30 pm GMT.
You can also follow the match live on the Gillingham FC and Blackpool FC websites.
