Royals Progress

HALSTEAD TOWN 1 POTTON UNITED 2

Potton moved into the next round of the FA Vase with this victory over Halstead Town, who are one level below Potton. Potton gave an impressive display in the first half, scoring two good goals and seeing the Halstead keeper make some fine saves. The second half was completely different with Potton failing to test the keeper and after scoring their goal Halstead had opportunities to score—but fortunately failed to take them.

From the start Potton attacked and Etheridge saw his shot deflected for a corner and then his free kick well saved by the keeper. Potton were passing well and running off the ball with both McArdle and Dowridge missing the target. In a rare Halstead attack McPherson shot wide and a centre from Thomas went narrowly over the bar. In the 29th minute Potton took a deserved lead when Pyman made a determined run down the right and his centre was converted by McArdle. Potton increased their lead 3 minutes later when Potton were awarded a disputed free kick about 30 yards from goal. From this Etheridge saw his shot hit the outside of the post but Andrews was on hand to force the ball home. Potton continued to press with an effort from Etheridge well saved and Dowridge was tackled before he could shoot. Potton finished the half with both Pyman and McArdle shooting wide. HT 0-2

Early in the second half Halstead took the game to Potton with Cleal having a header easily saved and then shooting over. Irish made a tremendous save from Travell by pushing his shot over the bar. Etheridge fired over before Pyman saw his effort easily saved by the keeper. In a period of further pressure by Halstead Potton failed to clear the ball and it went to Poku who scored with a deflected shot in the 62nd minute. This gave Halstead all the encouragement the needed and with Potton failing to produce the quality of football it was game on. Travell saw his shot saved and from a throw in Potton allowed the ball to bounce to Cleal in the 6 yard area but his header lacked any force. In a rare Potton attack Etheridge shot wide before a dangerous centre from Cleal eluded everyone. Halstead played a though ball and Irish did well to dive and save at the feet of an oncoming forward. 5 minutes of added time were played but Potton held on to secure a place in the next round. FT 1-2

Potton United: Sam Irish, Luke Pyman. Jayden Fitzpatrick (Emmanuel Folorunso), Liam Andrews, Joe Gauge, Sam Willis, Jamie Sylvester, Sam Dowridge (Phil Payne), Aaron McArdle, David Etheridge, Ibrahim Camara (Chisom Amadi)

In the next round, the Second Qualifying Round, Potton will be at home to Baldock Town on Saturday 25 September.

On Tuesday 14 September Potton visit Peterborough Northern Star and on Saturday 18 September they visit Rugby Town—both in the uhlSports United Counties League Premier Division South.