Russ Wilcox, Gainsborough Trinity’s manager, has agreed to forgo his niece’s nuptials due to his team’s upcoming FA Cup first round match against Accrington Stanley from League Two this forthcoming Sunday. The renowned manager of the seventh-tier side, anticipates the match at The Northolme to be an event equally worth missing family commitments for.
Wilcox disclosed his intentions to join the wedding reception following the match to BBC Radio Lincolnshire, but indicated that an ensuing victory may result in him remaining at the field. He jovially stated that, “If there is a party here, I will be here.”
Wilcox’s niece had scheduled her wedding on Sunday with the intention of avoiding a clash with the regular Saturday matches of Gainsborough’s Northern Premier League Premier Division. Wilcox revealed his niece thoughtfully chose a Sunday hoping it did not coincide with a football match, under the impression that the team would play on the Saturday.
Wilcox is prepared to attend the precursor wedding festivities on the following Saturday, intending to show solidarity with his family before focusing his attention on the critical match. Wilcox recognised the predicament, stating, “There was disappointment there, but she understands that’s how it goes.”
The FA Cup game, to be broadcasted on TV, could have been planned for any day of the weekend. However, for Wilcox, the Sunday game brought about a blend of personal and professional opportunities. He affirmed that although it may seem the match landed on the wrong day, for him, it occurred on the perfect day as it symbolises their entrance into the first round of the FA Cup.
This article was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.bbc.com.
