It felt like it should be something special. We had two of the best-run clubs in their respective divisions, both experts at making the most of what they have and embarrassing better resourced opponents, coming together at a famous old ground which was in all likelihood seeing it’s last ever FA Cup tie.
The ground, about to be replaced by a more functional modern stadium by Kew Bridge, did its bit. Overshadowed by the M4 flyover but for those towering floodlights, it is, along with its swaying, cramped terraces, a 1970s throwback. Crammed in between West London’s busy streets and famously with a pub on all four corners, Griffin Park is beloved by aficionados and was suitably heaving and alive for the visit of the 2016 Premier League champions.