‘The most important thing’ - AFC Telford United into round three of the FA Trophy

The Bucks edged a penalty shootout with Chelmsford City at the SEAH Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Boss Kevin Wilkin was pleased to see his AFC Telford United side progress to the third round of the FA Trophy - however it came about.

Brandon Hall is mobbed by his AFC Telford United team-mates after winning a penalty shootout against Chelmsford City in the FA Trophy Picture: Kieran Stoddart | Kieran Stoddart

placeholder image — Brandon Hall is mobbed by his AFC Telford United team-mates after winning a penalty shootout against Chelmsford City in the FA Trophy Picture: Kieran Stoddart | Kieran Stoddart

The Bucks defeated Chelmsford City 6-5 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in an entertaining 90 minutes at the SEAH Stadium.

And Wilkin admitted that, ultimately, the objective was being in Monday’s draw.

“Yeah, that’s the most important thing,” he said. “I think it was a good cup tie overall - both sides were showing that they were capable enough and wanted to win the game. It was never comfortable for either team.”

Wilkin’s side fell behind to Cameron Green’s sensational long-distance strike in the first half, but they levelled before the break. Defender Oliver Cawthorne headed his second goal in eight days to cancel Green’s goal, and the game stayed in the balance throughout the second half.

The Bucks boss felt his side only got into their stride after falling behind, but seemed largely content, the Bucks looking easily a match for full-time opponents.

“I’m disappointed to fall behind as we did,” said Wilkin. “We didn’t start the game particularly well, but we grew into it and got better and played some pretty reasonable stuff at times, but equally, you know, Chelmsford were always a threat, and both goalkeepers have made some good saves throughout the game.

“I’m delighted that obviously we’ve come out on the right side of the penalties. Fair play to Brandon (Hall, goalkeeper); he’s come up with two big moments when we’re looking like we’re going out and I’m delighted for the lads and everybody.”

It took eight spot-kicks each before the Bucks emerged triumphant, with Hall twice saving his side. Chelmsford were twice a single kick away from progressing, but Hall denied Ben Worman and Rhys Browne.

With the Bucks having the advantage of taking first, Shrewsbury Town loanee Isaac England’s conversion heaped pressure on to Clarets defender Adam Crowther, and he skied his kick over Hall’s crossbar to end the tie.