Two clubs progress in the FA Youth Cup
SUFFOLK will have two non-league sides in Friday’s FA Youth Cup First Round Proper Draw.
AFC Sudbury and Brantham both won their Third Qualifying Round ties earlier this week to reach the main draw, where they will be joined by EFL League One and Two clubs including Ipswich Town.
AFC Sudbury won 3-1 at Dereham Town and Brantham Athletic – who have never previously reached the First Round Proper – were 4-2 winners at Colney Heath.
In front of 246 spectators at Aldiss Park AFC Sudbury took a firm grip on their tie, scoring three times in the first half through Josh Stokes (2) and Oli Lonton, before Dereham replied with a second-half penalty. AFC Sudbury players are pictured celebrating above. Photograph: Steve Screech.
AFC Sudbury have a proud record in the competition in recent seasons, previously playing at both Swindon Town and Bristol Rovers and last season meeting AFC Wimbledon at home.
Brantham Athletic, meanwhile, went into the break 2-0 ahead at the Recreation Ground thanks to goals from Aidan Carpenter and Ben Pratt.
Zach Elseidy made it three before the hosts reduced the deficit, but Tom Lawson scored from the penalty spot, before Colney Heath pulled one back late on.
Felixstowe & Walton United were unable to make it a trio of Suffolk clubs to reach the main draw, losing 8-0 at Chelmsford City in their tie.
The First Round Proper ties have to be played by Saturday, November 6th.