The magic of the FA Cup was in full flow this weekend, with non-league heroes, dramatic comebacks, and stunning goals lighting up the second round. The standout story came from the National League South, where Weston-super-Mare created history by reaching the third round for the very first time.
Non-League Heroes and Historic Triumphs
Weston-super-Mare's historic passage was secured with a 2-0 victory away at fellow National League South side Chelmsford. The hero was striker Louis Britton, who fired both goals to send the Seagulls soaring into the draw for the next stage. Chelmsford's afternoon went from bad to worse when substitute Taylor Clark was shown a straight red card just 12 minutes after coming on for a dangerous high tackle.
Elsewhere, League One Cheltenham Town avoided a major cup shock but were given an enormous scare by non-league Buxton. The Robins twice came from a goal down before unleashing a stunning second-half blitz. After Tai Sodje's opener was cancelled out by Isaac Hutchinson, George Ward struck to give Buxton a 2-1 half-time lead.
The game turned after the break. Substitute Robbie Cundy equalised before the hour mark, sparking a four-goal onslaught in the final half-hour. Jordan Thomas netted a brace, Hutchinson grabbed his second of the game, and Ethon Archer completed a remarkable 6-2 scoreline for the League One side.
Penalty Drama and Emphatic Wins
Fleetwood Town and Luton Town played out a thrilling 2-2 draw, with the Cod Army twice taking the lead only to be pegged back. The tie was decided from the spot, with Fleetwood triumphing 4-2 in the penalty shootout to overcome a side managed by former Arsenal star Jack Wilshere.
There was penalty drama elsewhere too. Mansfield Town needed spot-kicks to see off Accrington Stanley after a 2-2 draw, eventually winning 3-1. Wigan Athletic and Cambridge United also required shootouts to progress past Barrow and Stockport County respectively.
Other teams enjoyed more straightforward afternoons. Swindon Town crushed Bolton Wanderers 4-0, with Aaron Drinan scoring a spectacular hat-trick capped by an astonishing 30-yard lob. Grimsby Town gained revenge for last year's first-round exit by thrashing Wealdstone 4-0, Jaze Kabia scoring twice. MK Dons beat Oldham Athletic 3-1.
League Business as Usual for Exeter and Barnsley
Amidst their well-publicised off-field financial concerns, Exeter City produced a performance of real quality on the pitch, thrashing Wycombe Wanderers 4-0. Jack Aitchison was the star with two goals, while Jayden Wareham marked his strike with an acrobatic celebration.
In a tight League One derby, a second-half strike from Patrick Kelly gave Barnsley a 1-0 victory over Peterborough United. Ben Waine's goal secured a 1-0 win for Port Vale against Bristol Rovers.
The round was overshadowed by the tragic abandonment of the Charlton Athletic versus Portsmouth match following the death of a supporter. Our thoughts are with all those affected.
