FA Cup

SPARKLING DIAMONDS STUN IRON

by
The Non-League Football Paper Team
4 October 2026

AFC RUSHDEN 2 BRAINTREE TN 1
By Paul Judd

JAMES CLIFTON’S thunderous drive ten minutes from time clinched AFC Rushden’s place in fourth round qualifying for just the second time.
Diamonds put Step 2 Braintree under significant pressure early with Sidik Aitcha heading wide from a second minute corner.
After three goalmouth scrambles, Aitcha then saw a superb header clawed out of the top corner by George Barrett
STAR MAN: James Clifton (AFC Rushden & D) ENTERTAINMENT: ★★★★★
Braintree weathered the storm and after a dominant 15 mi...

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