2021-22 FA Cup: Third Round – Luton vs Harrogate

Luton Town welcome Harrogate Town to Kenilworth Road in the Third Round of 2021-22 FA Cup.

Luton are looking to avoid a fifth exit at this stage of the FA Cup in six seasons, whilst Harrogate look to extend their longest-ever run in this competition with a win.

 

Team News

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Luton manager – Nathan Jones could welcome back a host of first-team regulars after a festive Coronavirus outbreak prevented the club from playing for the last four weeks.

Harry Cornick (calf) and Luke Berry (knee) could feature if they are declared match fit but Admiral Muskwe (international duty) is absent.

Harrogate could welcome George Thomson back into the line-up, after he missed Tuesday’s Papa John’s Trophy win over Carlisle United through suspension.

Ryan Fallowfield and Warren Burrell could also feature after being rested in midweek but Alex Pattison (fitness) is a doubt, whilst Mark Beck (cup-tied), Will Smith (abdominal), Aaron Martin (knee) and Simon Power (quad) are ruled out.

 

Stat Attack

• This is the first-ever meeting between Luton and Harrogate in all competitions.
• Each of Luton’s last two FA Cup goals were scored in the 30th minute, courtesy of George Moncur and Jordan Clark respectively.
• Three of Harrogate’s four FA Cup goals this season were scored after half-time.
• Nathan Jones’ Hatters have won each of their last three FA Cup ties against lower-league opposition (W3).
• Harrogate have lost two of their last three FA Cup clashes against higher-ranked league opposition (W1, L2).

 

Prediction

Having had four weeks off due to various Coronavirus related postponements, Luton certainly will be eager to recommence their campaign with a strong performance here after avoiding defeat in their last two matches.

Harrogate though will be thankful to have been back in action in midweek so I don’t expect any rustiness within the Sulphurites here, although they’re going to have to raise their game to another level given the quality within Luton’s team at present.

This match though feels like it should be the Hatters’ to lose because of not just their superior quality but also their recent form against lower-league opposition in the FA Cup.

Prediction: Luton Town 2-0 Harrogate Town

Result: Luton Town 4-0 Harrogate Town