Non-league outfits such as Canvey and Billericay Town, plus Football League clubs at Southend United's level and the Second Division, are likely to be the biggest losers in plans to cut the cash available for teams winning in the earlier rounds of the FA Cup next season.

A total of £2m less will be available to clubs competing from the qualifying rounds up to the third round proper with the total sum going down from £12,653,000 to £10,698,250 but, once the big boys of the Premiership and First Division join the competition, the cash remains the same as last term.

The 92-strong FA Council will discuss the proposed cuts at their meeting next Saturday and there's a "softener" for non-league teams with an increase proposed in prize money for the FA Trophy (up £225,00 to £631,000) and FA Vase (£350,000 from £153,000).

Published Monday, June 16, 2003

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