Hungerford make history by reaching last 16 of the FA Trophy
TEN-MAN Hungerford Town progressed to the last 16 of the FA Trophy for the first time in their history with a narrow 1-0 victory over Evo-Stik Premier League North leaders Leek Town on Saturday.
Town’s Mark Draycott scored the decisive goal seven minutes from time, but a minute later Gary Horgan was given his marching orders for a late challenge on Leek’s top scorer Jordan Johnson.
However, Hungerford held on to secure their spot in the last 16, where they have been drawn against either Gosport or Nuneaton.
The game survived an 8am inspection but the surface was not conducive to good football as players struggled to keep their feet on the difficult surface.
Both sides were evenly matched but chances were at a premium, although Hungerford rattled the crossbar in the opening half whilst the Blues forced a fine save out of Hungerford 'keeper Paul Strudley during the second period.
Leek shaded the opening half and created the better chances with flying winger John Johnston a constant thorn in Elliott Legg’s side when the Blues’ wide man could stay on his feet.
Hungerford striker Draycott pulled a save out of Ben Chapman as early as the second minute, whilst at the other end, Johnston dragged a shot wide when clean through on goal.
Five minutes before the interval Leek came close when Matt Bell swung a cross under the Hungerford crossbar forcing Strudley to stretch before clawing the ball away.
Strudley came to Hungerford’s rescue again a minute into the second half when Johnson fired in a free kick that the keeper palmed wide.
However, late pressure led them to snatching all three points victory with six minutes remaining when Stefan Brown set up Draycott to lash home from 15 yards, sparking wild celebrations among the visiting support.
They were then reduced to ten men when Johnson broke free down the left channel but his progress was halted by a late challenge by Horgan, who was immediately shown a straight red card.
However, Hungerford survived a couple of scares through five minutes of added time to reach the last 16.
