Non-League Paper Programme: Magic moments and giant-killing thrills in the FA Cup

By Matt Badcock

In a funny way, Kevin Horlock’s quote after Maldon & Tiptree’s defeat to Port Vale encapsulated what the FA Cup is all about.

“We had them on the ropes for five minutes – we probably scored 85 minutes too soon,” the Jammers boss said of Anisius Lewis’ very early strike that put the Step 4 side ahead, “but what a magical moment.”

Less than 20 minutes later and Horlock’s side were 4-1 down to the League One Valiants, the lowest-ranked team in the first round’s FA Cup adventure was coming to an end.

But it’s those moments that make the FA Cup. For a few minutes, nine to be more precise, their travelling fans would have been wondering ‘what if’.

Upset

We all know about the financial rewards that comes with the FA Cup – the TV cash to boost the coffers, the benefit of prize money, extra sponsorship and ticket sales. But, also, it gives unforgettable moments.

Think of Havant & Waterlooville all those years ago when they led the mighty Liverpool not once but twice at Anfield.

Think of Kidderminster Harriers taking West Ham to the final moments before Declan Rice bailed the Premier League side out.

Think of Tamworth last season as they took Tottenham into extra-time but almost won it in the dying stages of the 90 minutes.

At the weekend, Chelmsford City caused the first upset of round one when they beat Braintree Town at Saturday lunchtime – a feat repeated by fellow Step 2 sides Weston-super-Mare, who knocked out Aldershot Town, and Slough Town as they piled the woe on Altrincham.

There were some all Non-League ties that brought Sutton United, Wealdstone and Buxton success and a place in the second round.

Magic

We also saw Gateshead upset League One AFC Wimbledon, Brackley Town beat Notts County on penalties and Boreham Wood take, what feels like, their annual EFL scalp in Crawley Town.

Carlisle United looked to be on their way out at Reading before Regan Linney scored two stoppage-time goals to force extra-time – where he then scored the winner to complete his hat-trick.

“It was a good three points,” he accidentally said live on Match of the Day the next day. “I’ve crumbled here!” Thankfully, the striker doesn’t crumble when he’s in the box!

“Where’s the matchball?” presenter Jason Mohammad asked. “It’s still in my car,” Linney responded with a smile. That’s the magic of the FA Cup!

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