" 'The odds are against us as much as they are against them.' "
The commentator, sitting aloof in the gantry, let the quote breathe for a moment before continuing.
"Those were the words of Wigan manager Dawson ahead of this FA Cup quarter-final clash with Brighton. A reminder that while Brighton may be the Premier League side, cup football has never cared much for status."
"Welcome to the quarter finals of the ever glorious FA Cup, folks!"
The moment these words left the mouth of the commentator, the broadcast camera swept across the Amex Stadium, rain drifting down in a steady curtain that glistened under the floodlights.
The stands were filling quickly despite the weather.
Fans in heavy coats and plastic ponchos stamped their feet against the cold, scarves pulled tight around their necks, while the buzz of anticipation in the stadium rose in waves as more supporters took their seats.
