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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Gavin Quinn

Why are FA Cup games kick-off times a minute late today? Here's why there's a one minute delay

All 32 of this weekend's FA Cup third round clashes will kick-off with a 60-second delay as part of an FA initiative to raise awareness for mental health.

The Heads Up campaign aims to promote awareness of mental health and fans are encouraged to use the extra minute to consider the impact a minute can have on their own, as well as friends and family's, wellbeing.

The majority of the games are due to kick-off at 3.01 pm on Saturday, with twelve games fixed for Sunday afternoon - including Liverpool's clash with Everton.

The first of the games get underway at 12.31pm on Saturday.

A statement from the FA said: "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 wellbeing.

"During the minute delay, fans will be encouraged to consider the positive impact 60 seconds can have on their own wellbeing or in supporting a friend or family member.

"Spearheaded by HRH The Duke of Cambridge, the Heads Up campaign harnesses the influence and popularity of football to encourage more people – particularly men – to feel comfortable talking about, and taking action to improve, their mental health and to recognise that mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness."


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