Basford United create history with FA Trophy victory

Underdogs Basford United created history by reaching the First Round proper of the Buildbase FA Trophy after a hugely entertaining 2-1 home Third Qualifying Round win over National League North side Curzon Ashton this afternoon.
Basford United management duo on the trophy trail - Mark Clifford and Martin CarruthersBasford United management duo on the trophy trail - Mark Clifford and Martin Carruthers
Basford United management duo on the trophy trail - Mark Clifford and Martin Carruthers

Liam Hearn gave them a fourth minute lead from the penalty spot after Courey Grantham had been brought down.

Jack Thomas doubled the lead after 17 minutes, lashing home from close range after Cieron Keane’s cross.

After that initial setback Curzon came back strongly and Basford keeper Kieran Preston saved well from Niall Cummins’ header.

Thomas went close two minutes into the second half, Chris Rowney clearing his shot off the line.

Good link-up play between Hearn and Thomas ended with Thomas being denied by the diving Cameron Mason.

The visiting keeper then made a great save from a James Reid shot.

Ryan Brooke blasted Curzon back in the game with a shot from the edge of the area after 72 minutes to set up a nervy finale.

Preston turned Brooke’s header onto the bar with 11 minutes remaining but the Basford defence held firm in the face of pressure.