Key Highlights
- Weston-super-Mare AFC secured a historic victory against Aldershot Town in the FA Cup First Round Proper.
- The game ended 1-1 after regular time and went into extra-time, where Weston-super-Mare scored twice to clinch the win.
- Aldershot Town took an early lead through Kiban Rai but Weston-super-Mare equalized in extra-time with a goal from Emlyn Lewis.
- The decisive goal was scored by Jordan Waite, who also won the Man of the Match award for his performance.
Extra-Time Thriller: Weston-super-Mare AFC Stuns Aldershot Town in FA Cup
The match between Weston-super-Mare AFC and Aldershot Town on Saturday, 1 November at The Optima Stadium in Weston-Super-Mare was a thrilling affair that went into extra-time. Despite facing tough competition from the Aldershot Town side, the home team managed to secure an impressive victory, advancing to the next round of the FA Cup First Round Proper.
Early Stages and Tactical Changes
The game started with three changes made by Weston-super-Mare AFC. Jacob Jagger Cane, James Dodd, and Emlyn Lewis entered the starting lineup in place of Jason Pope, Callum Wood, and Waite respectively. Aldershot Town took an early lead through Kiban Rai, who capitalized on some near misses inside both penalty areas to score past Max Harris.
Weston-super-Mare’s Comeback Effort
As the match progressed, Weston-super-Mare began to gain momentum. Louis Britton nearly broke the deadlock with a well-placed shot that narrowly missed the target at the near post. The Seagulls’ efforts continued as they saw an attempt saved by Marcus Dewhurst when Ryan Jones headed a Pearson knock-down towards goal. Despite these close calls, Aldershot Town managed to keep their lead until half-time.
Extra-Time Drama and Weston-super-Mare’s Victory
The second half started with both teams pushing for an opening goal. Kwame Thomas had two early attempts but was unable to break the deadlock before halftime. The game went into extra-time, where the Seagulls finally broke through.
James Dodd nodded towards goal after a Coulson free-kick, and Emlyn Lewis poked the ball over the line from close range.
The decisive moment came just four minutes into the second period of extra-time when Jordan Waite scored his second goal of the season. This crucial goal was secured by a combination of skill and determination as Waite drove forward after Martin won back possession, then fired an excellent effort into the bottom corner. The home team defended resolutely in the closing stages to secure their victory.
Conclusion
The match concluded with Weston-super-Mare AFC defeating Aldershot Town 2-1 (Lewis 84, Waite 109; Rai 21) in front of an attendance of 2,557 spectators. Emlyn Lewis was named Man of the Match for his commanding performance and crucial goal-scoring contribution.
The victory marks a significant milestone for Weston-super-Mare AFC as they advance to the next round of the FA Cup First Round Proper. Fans will now look forward to their upcoming league match against Hemel Hempstead Town on Tuesday, another critical fixture in their season schedule.
