Magnificent Seagulls Soar to Emirates FA Cup Third Round Triumph
In a thrilling encounter at Melbourne Stadium, Weston-super-Mare AFC achieved a remarkable 2-0 victory over Chelmsford City, securing their place in the Emirates FA Cup’s Third Round. This historic win marked an important milestone for the Seagulls, particularly as it drew Chelmsford’s largest crowd to the stadium, with an attendance of 3,628.
Match Details
- Date: Recent Saturday
- Venue: Melbourne Stadium, Essex
- Attendance: 3,628 (highest ever for Chelmsford City)
Team Changes and Performance
Manager Scott Rogers made strategic adjustments to the starting lineup, introducing five new players, including Michael Smith and Luke Coulson. Additionally, Harry Kite, on loan from Truro City, made his debut.
The match saw Chelmsford start strongly. Jason Adigun, a key player for The Clarets, squandered an early chance by firing over the bar from a close range. Weston had their opportunities too, with Liam Sercombe trying to chip the goalkeeper, Chris Haigh, from 35 yards.
First Half Highlights
As the game progressed, Adigun came close to scoring, hitting the post with a well-placed shot. Chelmsford’s Emlyn Lewis also tested the Weston defense, forcing Haigh to tip a header over the bar before half-time ended with the score tied at 0-0.
Second Half Action
The second half began with intense momentum for both teams. Max Harris made a fantastic save on a header from Joe Grimwood, keeping the score level. Despite a series of attempts from both sides, the game changed when Weston finally found the net.
In the 62nd minute, Dom Bernard delivered a pinpoint cross, allowing Louis Britton to volley an exceptional goal, reminiscent of Marco van Basten’s famous strike. This goal shifted the game’s energy, with Weston controlling the pace.
With Chelmsford increasingly desperate to equalize, their efforts fell short as a 25-yard shot from Taylor Clark went wide. The situation worsened for Chelmsford when Clark received a red card for a reckless challenge, leaving them with ten men.
Seagulls Seal Victory
Weston maintained their dominance, and Britton struck again in the 88th minute, netting his second goal following a save from Haigh. A late red card for Will Dawes marred the celebrations, but Weston’s 2-0 triumph was secure.
Match Summary
- Final Score: Chelmsford City 0 – 2 Weston-super-Mare AFC
- Goals: Britton (62′, 88′)
- Man of the Match: Louis Britton
This victory not only enhances Weston-super-Mare’s status in the FA Cup but also sets the stage for an eagerly anticipated draw in the Third Round. Fans and players alike are now waiting to discover their next opponents as celebrations continue following this impressive performance.
