1931-1939
The geographical emphasis in the thirties was still pretty much focussed on the North and Midlands, although Arsenal and Portsmouth did manage to etch their names on the trophy.
In Pompey's case, they were the last winners before the dark clouds that had been gathering over Europe finally shut out the light and lead to the abandonment of professional football until the FA Cup of season 1945-46. For this reason, Portsmouth hold the record for the length of time that the FA Cup has been held.
In 1931, WBA managed a unique double by winning the FA Cup and also the second division title. The final was a Brummie day out as they defeated their neighbours Birmingham City.
