DESPITE the disgraceful post-match scenes in Cardiff on Sunday, the weekend's action showed why the FA Cup remains the envy of the football world.

The relentless march of commercialism through the sport has failed to eradicate the romance of a competition which pits David against Goliath and harbours the distinct possibility that the giant may be slain.

The draw for the fourth round raises the prospect of such an encounter between Darlington and Newcastle United.

We can understand Darlington's willingness to concede home advantage to play at St James' Park. In business terms it is difficult for any Third Division club to turn down the chance of a £300,000 pay day.

But thankfully, the Football Association will not put temptation Darlington's way.

It is good for football, good for the FA Cup and good for the Darlington fans that the game is played as the draw intended.

It is somewhat reassuring even in the modern world of football that tradition can still conquer finance.

What a fitting send-off it will be for Feethams to stage the biggest match in Darlington's history. And the club and its supporters can dream of delivering one of the biggest cup upsets of all time.

All we must hope for now is that Peterborough don't wreck the party plans.

OUR prayers today are with Gordon and Sarah Brown. While many of us understand the elation at the birth of a child, very few of us know the pain of watching a young life being extinguished within a matter of days.

The death of a baby is the worst event a family can endure. To suffer such a tragedy in the full glare of publicity can only add to the torment.

Mr Brown and his wife will have understood the media's and the public's interest inn their daughter's battle for life. We hope they gained some comfort and strength from the many messages of support.

Now they must be given the time and space to grieve in private.