How Are This Father and Son Bonding Over Their Hemel FA Cup Adventure?

Ian Allinson and his son, Lee Allinson, are gearing up for a significant FA Cup first-round match as Hemel Hempstead Town faces Wigan Athletic. This encounter is particularly special for Ian, a former player who reached the FA Cup semi-finals with Luton Town and the quarter-finals with Arsenal in the 1980s, as his son manages the team. Hemel Hempstead aims to pull off an upset against the professional side, Wigan, in what promises to be a thrilling contest at the Brick Community Stadium.

Last updated: 31 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the FA Cup first round approaches, Hemel Hempstead Town is preparing for a challenging match against Wigan Athletic. The Tudors, currently fourth in the National League South—three tiers below Wigan—are coming off a strong run, having won four of their last five league matches. Under the management of Lee Allinson, with guidance from his father, Ian, who oversees football operations, the team is optimistic about their chances to make history by advancing beyond the first round for the first time.

Key takeaways

Ian Allinson, a former professional player, is now the head of football operations at Hemel Hempstead Town.
Lee Allinson vows to get a commemorative tattoo if the team wins against Wigan.
Hemel Hempstead has recently performed well in their league, boosting team morale ahead of the FA Cup tie.
The match will take place at Wigan's Brick Community Stadium, presenting a challenging environment for the Tudors.

Timeline: how we got here

Hemel Hempstead has seen a series of milestones leading up to this FA Cup fixture:

2014: Last appearance in the FA Cup first round, where they lost to Bury (3-1).
October 2023: Hemel Hempstead secured a spot in the first round proper with a 2-1 victory over Yeovil Town.
31 October 2023: Scheduled first-round match against Wigan Athletic at the Brick Community Stadium.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The most notable development is the upcoming FA Cup match against Wigan Athletic, which presents a significant opportunity for Hemel Hempstead to showcase their capabilities. Lee Allinson's commitment to get a tattoo if they win has added a personal touch to the match.

What was already established

Hemel Hempstead's recent performance in the National League South has been promising, with the team demonstrating resilience and determination. Ian Allinson's extensive experience in football management will serve as a vital asset for Lee as they strategise for the match.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The FA Cup is a significant cultural event in the UK, drawing attention from football fans across the nation. For households in Hemel Hempstead, this match could foster local pride and community spirit, particularly if the team performs well.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses in Hemel Hempstead could see increased traffic and sales during match week, as fans gather to support their team. Moreover, a successful run in the FA Cup can enhance the club's visibility, potentially attracting sponsors and creating job opportunities.

Policy and regulation

The success of non-league clubs like Hemel Hempstead in competitions like the FA Cup highlights the importance of community football in the UK. This could prompt discussions around funding and support for lower-tier clubs from both local councils and national governing bodies.

Numbers that matter

4: The number of league matches Hemel Hempstead has won out of their last five.
1,000: Expected supporters to travel to Wigan for the match.
30: Years of managerial experience Ian Allinson brings to the team.
2-1: The score by which Hemel Hempstead defeated Yeovil Town to advance in the FA Cup.

Definitions and jargon buster

FA Cup: An annual knockout football competition in men's football, organised by The Football Association.
National League South: A semi-professional football league in England, part of the National League system.
Tudors: The nickname for Hemel Hempstead Town Football Club.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

The focus will be on the upcoming match against Wigan, with the team aiming to prepare thoroughly and maintain high morale. Strategies will be implemented to counter Wigan's strengths while capitalising on their own recent form.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Following the FA Cup match, Hemel Hempstead will continue its league campaign, where maintaining momentum and securing a playoff spot will be crucial. Success in the cup could also open doors for additional funding and sponsorship opportunities.

Signals to watch

Performance metrics in upcoming league matches.
Fan engagement and attendance at matches.
Injury reports and player fitness levels leading up to future games.

Practical guidance

Do

Support local teams by attending matches or engaging with club activities.
Stay informed about the team’s performance and upcoming fixtures.
Encourage community involvement and pride in local sports.

Don’t

Underestimate the potential for upsets in knockout competitions like the FA Cup.
Neglect the importance of mental and physical preparation for players.
Overlook the impact that a successful cup run can have on a club’s future.

Checklist

Check match timings and locations for upcoming fixtures.
Plan travel arrangements to support the team away from home.
Engage with local businesses supporting the club.
Follow club announcements for news and updates.
Prepare to celebrate community achievements in sports.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Hemel Hempstead Town is riding high on recent performances, the unpredictability of cup competitions means that anything can happen. Wigan Athletic, as a professional club, will pose significant challenges. Additionally, injuries or unforeseen circumstances could impact team performance, making it essential for the Tudors to remain adaptable and focused.

Bottom line

The upcoming FA Cup match against Wigan Athletic represents an exciting opportunity for Hemel Hempstead Town to create a memorable moment in their club’s history. With Ian Allinson’s experience and Lee Allinson’s leadership, the team has a solid foundation as they aim for an upset. Success in this match could lead to greater recognition and support for the club, setting the stage for future growth.

FAQs

What is the significance of the FA Cup for Hemel Hempstead Town?

The FA Cup represents a prestigious opportunity for Hemel Hempstead Town to compete against higher-tier teams and potentially create history by advancing beyond the first round.

Who are the key figures in Hemel Hempstead's management?

Lee Allinson is the manager, while his father, Ian Allinson, serves as the head of football operations, providing valuable experience and guidance.

How has Hemel Hempstead performed recently?

Hemel Hempstead has won four out of their last five league matches, showing strong form as they approach the FA Cup tie against Wigan Athletic.