Reading boss Steve Clarke and Bradford counterpart Phil Parkinson have both criticised the decision to play their FA Cup quarter-final replay on a Monday evening . The FA have said they are powerless to move the game due to UEFA ’ s threat of heavy financial punishment . The clubs must play again at the Madejski Stadium a week Monday , just 48 hours after they play league fixtures . Reading manager Steve Clarke is bemused by the decision to host a quarter-final replay on a Monday . Reading were held to a goalless draw by Bradofrd in the FA Cup quarter-final on Saturday . Andrew Davies goes close to giving Bradford the lead with his header in the second half at Valley Parade . The tie can not be staged in midweek as it would clash with Champions League games . UEFA took away £1million of television revenue owed to English clubs and fined the FA £42,000 two years ago for scheduling games that clashed with European ties . FA sources admit their hands are tied , but Clarke and Parkinson believe the situation devalues the FA ’ s own competition . ‘ My question to the FA is why , ’ said Clarke . ‘ I know that people says it ’ s UEFA but the FA have to be stronger . I just find it strange that they don ’ t protect their own showpiece competition. ’ Parkinson secured Bradford ’ s place in the FA semi-final draw for the first time in 104 years following a fiercely fought goalless draw , and he said : ‘ I think it ’ s a little bit disrespectful to the FA Cup and the magnitude of this game coming up . ‘ It ’ s a history-making game . To have to play it so quickly is frustrating. ’ Davies reacts after missing his chance to give Bradford the lead against Reading on Saturday in the FA Cup . Davies looks on as the ball heads for the Reading goal during the FA Cup quarter-final tie at Valley Parade . The ball goes wide as the score remained 0-0 and a replay will be held a week on Monday .
Reading 's FA Cup quarter-final replay with Bradford is on Monday March 16 . Both teams are in league action only two days before the replay . Steve Clarke believes the date makes it hard for them to field strong sides .