Basford Through In FA Youth Cup

Lincoln United U18 2-2 Basford United U18 *1-4 on pens (FA Youth Cup Third Qualifying Round) 21.10.20

Basford United’s under 18s put in a stunning second half fight back to come from 2-0 down to win 4-1 on penalties away to Lincoln United.

The victory for Josh Law’s side makes them the first Basford side to make the first-round proper of the FA Youth Cup and earned them a trip to Port Vale.

Sam Bingham and Leo Priestley put the hosts firmly in the driving seat at the break after they both got on the score sheet. But Law’s side took control of the second half and Kiarn Nyemba struck a deserved equaliser after Sam Newell had pulled one back.

With penalties needed to separate the sides Gianni Musson was again the hero saving from Max Baker and Derry Fogg before Rory Harrison fired home the winning kick.

The game started in a tense fashion, with both sides not wanting to make a mistake. Lewis Rourke looked to have had the first chance for Basford but his touch let him down. Wayde Hines then had a couple of efforts blocked before the hosts moved ahead.

The ball was worked out to Bingham and his strike was across Basford ‘keeper Musson and into the far corner. Basford were then almost immediately level but Hines was only able to find the side netting.

Lincoln United then went close through Max Baker but his header was off target. Bingham then went close again before Hines drew a good save from Bradley Matzk up the other end.

On 43 minutes the hosts ensured they were two clear at the break. The referee pointed to the spot for handball and Priestley stepped up to convert the spot kick.

The introduction of Nyemba at the start of the second half kick started Josh Law’s side and they were soon back in the contest. Newell picked the ball up outside the area and smashed the ball into the back of the net. Nathaniel Peters and Harrison then both went close as Basford began to turn up the pressure on their hosts.

Their constant pressure saw them deservedly level with just under 20 minutes on the clock. A low ball into the box was not claimed by the ‘keeper and Nyemba was on hand to prod the ball into the net from close range.

Nyemba and fellow substitute Ferdinand Bartley then went close to a late winner for Basford, both seeing headers saved but the visitors were unable to stop the game going to penalties.

Not that it mattered though as they held their nerve in the shootout. Newell and Priestley made it one a piece scoring for their sides before Jordan Haywood put Basford 2-1 ahead. Musson then saved from Baker and Fogg, either side of Jacob Taylor finding the back of the net.

The decisive spot kick was left to Harrison and he showed no nerves firing Basford into the first-round proper of the FA Youth Cup.