Town win penalty shoot-out to reach third round of FA Trophy

MELKSHAM travelled to the New Forest to play Bashley in the second qualifying round of the FA Trophy in good form having not lost for four games. 

Manager Rich Fey had to make a couple of late changes due to injury and illness but the town produced some lovely football first half and were well worthy of their two-goal lead thanks to Chris Zebroski and Sam Hendy.

Bashley pulled a goal back straight after the interval and it looked like the Town would hang on, but conceded an equalizer with two minutes to play, meaning the game went straight to penalties.

Goalkeeper Conor Thompson saved Bashley’s first penalty and five expertly taken ones by Zebroski, Hendy, Ballinger, Graham and the winning penalty from Dave Thompson, meant that Town progressed to the third qualifying round on Saturday 8th October. They will be playing away at Tavistock.

Chairman Darren Perrin said, “A great achievement by the management and players to win two away games on the trot in the FA Trophy and great to see us extend our unbeaten run to five games.

“It was also very pleasing to see the amount of travelling supporters at the game. I urge the community of Melksham to try and make this Saturday’s very tough game against Wimborne at 3pm as we look to move into the top three. The support makes such a massive difference and we are very fortunate that we have the best supporters in the area and the league.

“We also look forward to hosting the fireworks night with the Rugby club on Friday 4th November for the people of Melksham and we will be looking at hosting some more tribute bands in the New Year, as well as plenty of other activities. Please keep supporting your local football team. “

Town also drew 2-2 away at Hamworthy United in the Southern League on Saturday 17th September.

First half goals by Daniel McBeam in the 14th minute and Samuel Hendy on the stroke of half time were cancelled out by two Hamworthy after the break.