Hanwell Town 2-1 Grays Athletic
Hanwell came from a goal down to beat Grays Athletic and progress into the first round of the FA Trophy for the second year running.
The Geordies, who went further than ever before last season where they lost to Eastleigh in the second round, were made to battle against the Essex based side falling behind to Aron Gordon’s 53rdminute strike.
Substitute Joe Wilson levelled the scoring less than eight minutes later when his effort deflected past the luckless Joe Marsh. Just six minutes later Harry Seabrook headed home from Dan Carr’s free kick.
Hanwell were forced into a change in goal from the side that won 5-1 at Hungerford on 23 September, with Trent Carter-Rogers replacing the ill Sam Beasant. Bradley Clayton also came into the side in place of Kameron English.
The opening stages were a cagey affair with chances at a premium. The game opened up in the final 10 minutes of the first half with Tyler Brampton firing over from close range with Grays keeper George Marsh making a good save from Jordy Mongoy.
Grays started to apply pressure after half-time and took the lead when Aron Gordon found the net, with Dan Carr booked for his complaints believing the goal should have been ruled out.
Chris Moore called for calm heads and introduced Wilson for Giovanni Crichlow and Harry Rice for Ryan Cole.
It was Grays, though, who lost their composure as they became upset with the decisions by the match officials. Hanwell punished their lost focus as Wilson cut in from the left flank and his shot deflected past Marsh into the back of the net just after the house mark.
Hanwell were not done yet as the Gravelmen started to be penalised for needless fouls with keeper Marsh, in particular, unhappy with some of the decisions. From a Carr free kick, Seabrook rose highest to power his header past the helpless goalkeeper.
Hanwell tried to wrap things up with 10 minutes to go as Marsh, who had briefly regained his composure, made smart saves to deny Mongoy and Clatyon.
Grays looked to get back into the game but Carter-Rogers was on hand to make a string of fine saves, notably to deny Alfie Wellens with the visitors’ frustrations boiling over towards the officials as the final whistle neared. Hanwell, though, kept their heads and held firm to reach the first round proper.
The draw for the next round takes place on Monday. Hanwell’s next game is next Saturday when they host Dorchester Town.
Hanwell Town: Carter-Rogers, Oladunjoye, Carr, Woodcock, Seabrook, Hoath, Crichlow (Wilson 55), Patrick, Mongoy, Cole (Rice 55), Clayton (Cooper 88).
Subs (not used): Duncan, Miles
Club Sponsors:
