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Ed McCambridge

A cup of controversy: The curious new National League Cup has brought low crowds and boycotts

Neil Maskell the National League Maidenhead United Newcastle United U21

GATESHEAD, ENGLAND - JANUARY 21: Anthony Munda of Newcastle United runs with the ball during the National League Cup Group C match between Gateshead and Newcastle United U21 at the Gateshead International Stadium on January 21, 2025 in Gateshead, England. (Photo by Harriet Massey/Newcastle United via Getty Images).

The second half of the season is when titles are decided, cups are raised aloft and fans make memories to last a lifetime. But not every competition guarantees bums on seats.

The newly-reintroduced National League Cup, contested between non-league outfits and top professional U21 sides, has entered its knockout stage on a tide of controversy and disinterest.

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