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Sam Austin: "The Magic of the FA Cup Is Alive and Well"


PON_News

Notts County midfielder Sam Austin has shared his enthusiasm and reflections on the magic of the FA Cup ahead of their clash with Peterborough United.

Austin, who has experienced the highs of a memorable cup run with Kidderminster Harriers, is keen to replicate that magic with Notts County and propel his team forward during a busy footballing period.

Reflecting on his time at Kidderminster, Austin said, "It was a brilliant run and a great season. The FA Cup brings that little bit of excitement, not just for the players but for the club and the fans." He noted how even small details like the unique match balls during training create an air of anticipation. For him, these moments encapsulate the unique allure of the competition.

Austin emphasised the importance of approaching games against higher-league opponents with confidence. Speaking about his past experiences, including matches against Reading and West Ham, he said, "Every player wants to be playing against the best players. That’s the sort of dream, and that’s what the FA Cup can bring to you."

He highlighted how matches against Premier League talent like Declan Rice and Jarrod Bowen push players to excel, stating, "You just gain that little bit more each round, and when it does come to a Premier League team, you say, 'We deserve to be here.'"

Notts County’s current run in the FA Cup represents an opportunity not just for individual players but for the entire club. Austin views their upcoming match against Peterborough as a chance to build momentum. "It’s a brilliant opportunity to sort of get a great game in leading up to the busy Christmas period," he said, adding that the match is also a platform to prove their mettle.

Austin believes fan support is a critical factor in achieving success in the FA Cup. "There are games this season where we've been away, and I’ve thought, 'Gosh, are we at home?' because of the following they bring. That really helps us," he remarked.

He also praised the team’s professional attitude, noting how their comprehensive 5-0 victory in the last round showcased their ability to recover from a challenging start and dominate the game.

He continued, "This week, it’s about challenging ourselves, believing we can beat higher opposition, and having no fear. Go out there, express ourselves, and create something the club hasn’t had in a while - a great cup run."

Austin also touched on the camaraderie within the squad, which has been strengthened by the return of players like Cedwyn Scott. "He’s such a lively character around the changing room, bringing so much laughter and joy. Even when lads are out injured, they’re involved in meetings and in good spirits. Everyone’s together, and I think that’s hugely important," he said.

For Austin, the magic of the FA Cup lies not just in the matches but in the drama of the draw itself. Reflecting on his time at Kidderminster, he said, "When the balls are drawn out, you’re almost trying to see the number before they shout it out. There’s just that excitement and the unknown about who you’ll face." He believes these experiences are invaluable for motivating players to perform.

Looking ahead to Saturday, Austin hopes to channel these emotions and memories into a strong performance. "Using that excitement can spur you on and make you have a good performance, a good win," he concluded.

With Austin’s focus and determination, Notts County fans will be hoping that their team can rekindle the magic of the FA Cup and deliver a run to remember.

Dive into Stuart Maynard's insights on Notts County’s clash with Peterborough United in the second round of the FA Cup – a must-read for fans!

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Recommended Comments

Robbie

Posted

Sam has been such a steady and reliable player for Notts.

No matter where Stuart asks him to play, he always does a good job for Notts.

Sam has been so valuable to Notts in this period where the team has sustained so many injuries.

It is great that Notts have a very good utility player like Sam to call on.

He will be valuable to Notts in the second half of the season too.

  • Like 3
  • Love 6
NiftyNick

Posted

Sam Austin’s experience with Kidderminster really shows why the FA Cup is so special. Looking forward to today's match!

  • Like 8
ExiledPie

Posted

It’s brilliant to hear Sam’s positivity about the FA Cup. His memories of playing West Ham and nearly beating them reflect the competition’s beauty. I also like his point about fan support and how it can spur the team on. Let’s show up in full force and back the lads against Peterborough. A strong cup run could set the tone for the busy Christmas schedule.

  • Love 10
KingMaynard

Posted

It’s great to see the lads focusing on building momentum during such a crucial period. Let's make every moment matter.

  • Like 9
Fan of Big Tone

Posted

I like Sam’s positivity and how he speaks of the bond between the players, let’s hope Notts can progress in the cup for the squads sake as much as the fans, I think a good cup run will generate cinfidence.

  • Like 4
  • Love 6
Sirrels County

Posted

Hearing Sam talk about the draw and his memories with Kidderminster is fantastic. You can tell he understands the emotional pull of the FA Cup. He’s spot on about needing confidence against tougher teams and the importance of fan support. It’s clear this squad is prepared and motivated.

  • Love 10
NottsTastic

Posted

Loved hearing about his memories with West Ham and Declan Rice, that’s the spirit we need for Peterborough United!

  • Like 7
liampie

Posted

well i think sam austin is vastly underrated for the effort he puts in, i think hes a good player and on his day can change the outcome. he plays well with a goal to his name, it pushes him on and i would love to see him bag a goal against peterborough united today. we want players who we cant fault for their effort, our team has enough quality to do well and it really would be a good thing for the club if we could overcome this game with a positive result.

  • Love 8
BromPie

Posted

The way Sam describes the FA Cup gives me goosebumps. His memories with Kidderminster remind us why this competition holds such charm. Facing higher league opposition like Peterborough won’t be easy, but Sam’s professionalism and the team’s preparation – from practising penalties to building confidence. is precisely what is required. Let’s hope we make it past the third round for the first time in years.

  • Like 5
  • Love 4
eighteensixtytwo

Posted

The FA Cup truly is magical, and Sam’s reflections highlight exactly why it matters so much. His story about nearly beating West Ham is a reminder of what underdogs can achieve with belief and confidence. He’s absolutely right that playing against higher league teams like Peterborough United will test Notts but could also boost morale if we perform well.

  • Love 5
BlackandWhiteArmy

Posted

It’s also encouraging to hear how connected the team feels, even with injured players like Cedwyn Scott still being involved. That sort of unity is often overlooked but can be the difference-maker when it comes to big games. This season’s been exciting so far, let’s hope the cup run adds another layer of success.

  • Love 5
The Heff

Posted

Sam Austin really gets the essence of what the FA Cup means to fans and players alike. His point about how even small things, like using different balls in training, add to the excitement is so relatable. It’s clear he values professionalism, which is key if we’re to take on tougher teams like Peterborough. This mindset could help Notts push through to the later stages. Come on, lads!

  • Love 4


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