Tottenham’s FA Cup 3rd Round meeting with Championship side Middlesbrough will be shown live on BT Sport on Sunday 5th January at the Riverside Stadium.
But there’s a twist. It was meant to kick off at a 2pm, but all 32 3rd Round ties will begin one minute later than normal, meaning the game will now start at 2.01pm.
It’s because Heads Up are doing a mental health campaign to raise awareness and therefore fans are encouraged to notice the importance of mental health during that extra minute.
This is a statement released from the FA earlier this afternoon.
“It is hoped that the initiative will raise awareness of the importance of looking after our mental health, with 60 seconds representing just the first step in the journey to improved well-being. During the minute delay, fans will be encouraged to consider the positive impact 60 seconds can have on their own well-being or in supporting a friend or family member.
“Heads Up is partnering with Public Health England’s ‘Every Mind Matters’ across the Emirates FA Cup third round to draw attention to the simple steps we can all take to look after our mental health and wellbeing.”
Spurs could come up against two familiar faces in the North East as Boro are currently managed by former defender Jonathan Woodgate, who famously scored an extra-time winner against Chelsea in the 2008 Carling Cup Final and legendary striker Robbie Keane, who is Woodgate’s number two at the Riverside, although the pair are experiencing the full throttle of Championship football and their side sit just one point above the drop zone.
