Which Non-League Teams Have Defeated Top-Flight Sides in the FA Cup?

Crystal Palace's FA Cup exit marks a significant upset, as they became the ninth top-flight team eliminated by a non-league side in the competition's lengthy history. This article explores the instances of these upsets, providing insights into both the non-league clubs responsible and the broader context of the FA Cup.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Crystal Palace faced a shocking defeat in the third round of the FA Cup against a non-league team, underscoring the unpredictable nature of this historic football competition. This defeat has evoked memories of past upsets, as it is not the first time top-flight teams have succumbed to lower-league opposition. The FA Cup, known for its "giant-killing" moments, continues to be a stage where underdogs can triumph against the odds.

Key takeaways

Crystal Palace is the ninth top-flight team eliminated by a non-league side in FA Cup history.
The FA Cup has a storied tradition of upsets, with non-league teams often rising to the occasion.
Tottenham Hotspur famously won the FA Cup as a non-league team in 1901.

Timeline: how we got here

The FA Cup has been a platform for non-league teams to showcase their talents against established clubs. The following timeline highlights important moments that led to the recent upset involving Crystal Palace:

1901: Tottenham Hotspur wins the FA Cup as a non-league team, defeating four Division One sides in the process.
1926: Walsall defeated Arsenal, marking one of the early major upsets in FA Cup history.
1980s-2000s: Several notable non-league victories, including Sutton United defeating Coventry City in 1989.
2023: Crystal Palace is knocked out by a non-league side in the third round.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The recent defeat of Crystal Palace highlights the ongoing trend of non-league clubs achieving remarkable victories in the FA Cup, reinforcing the idea that anything can happen in knockout competitions.

What was already established

Historically, the FA Cup has seen numerous instances where non-league teams have ousted top-flight clubs. These moments are celebrated as part of the tournament's rich narrative, showcasing the spirit of competition in English football.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The FA Cup's surprises often lead to increased interest in football across different levels, encouraging families and fans to engage with local clubs and lower league matches. This can boost attendance and support for non-league teams.

Businesses and jobs

For local businesses, the success of non-league teams can translate into increased foot traffic on match days, benefiting pubs, restaurants, and shops. Additionally, the visibility gained from such upsets can lead to sponsorship opportunities for non-league clubs.

Policy and regulation

The FA Cup serves as a reminder of the importance of grassroots football in the UK, prompting discussions about funding and support for non-league clubs and the need for policies that promote competitive balance in the sport.

Numbers that matter

9: Total number of top-flight teams eliminated by non-league teams in FA Cup history.
1901: The year Tottenham Hotspur won the FA Cup as a non-league side.
100: Years of FA Cup history, highlighting the longevity and tradition of the competition.

Definitions and jargon buster

FA Cup: An annual knockout football competition in England, open to teams from all levels of the English football league system.
Non-league: Refers to football clubs that are not part of the English Football League (EFL), typically competing in regional leagues.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans can look forward to the next rounds of the FA Cup, where lower-league teams will continue to have opportunities to make their mark against higher-ranked opponents.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the FA Cup progresses, the excitement around potential upsets will likely increase, with clubs preparing for their respective matches to ensure they are competitive.

Signals to watch

Upcoming fixtures and match results that may indicate further upsets.
Performance of non-league teams in subsequent rounds.
Media coverage and public interest in the tournament.

Practical guidance

Do

Support local non-league teams and attend matches to experience the excitement firsthand.
Keep an eye on FA Cup fixtures for potential upsets.

Don’t

Underestimate the ability of lower-league teams to perform against top-flight clubs.
Ignore the cultural significance of the FA Cup in English football.

Checklist

Check upcoming FA Cup fixtures and mark your calendar.
Follow local non-league teams on social media for updates.
Consider attending local matches to support grassroots football.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the FA Cup is celebrated for its unpredictability, it's important to note that not all non-league teams possess the same level of competitiveness. Factors such as team preparation, injuries, and player form can significantly impact match outcomes, and future results may not always mirror past performances.

Bottom line

The recent upset involving Crystal Palace serves as a reminder of the FA Cup's unique charm, where David can indeed defeat Goliath. As the tournament progresses, fans should remain vigilant for further surprises, supporting their local teams and embracing the spirit of the competition.

FAQs

What is the significance of non-league teams in the FA Cup?

Non-league teams bring excitement to the FA Cup by challenging top-flight clubs, creating opportunities for upsets and showcasing the depth of talent in English football.

How many times have non-league teams defeated top-flight teams in the FA Cup?

There have been nine instances where non-league teams have eliminated top-flight teams in the FA Cup's history, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the competition.

What was the last major upset in the FA Cup?

The latest major upset occurred when Crystal Palace was knocked out by a non-league team in the third round, marking a significant moment in the tournament's history.