Living up norf, it is rare I head down for a midweek home game. However the few times I have done it, the difference between 19:45 and 20:00 ko is massive. For the Bradford FA Cup tie, I was only just taking my seat as the first goal flew in! For 20:00 kick offs, I am always there before kick off. So for the once every few years I do it, suits me fine
The whole HT thing is weird and seems to be very much a Football League thing. Next time you aren't at a game on a Saturday, watch how all the PL finish well before the FL games.
I can only assume its just apathy. PL instruct referees to stick to a strict matchday timetable due to overseas live tv coverage. FL dont bother.