Gloucester City manager Daf Williams praised his team’s grit and determination following their dramatic 5-3 penalty shoot-out victory over Worthing in the Isuzu FA Trophy, after a pulsating 3-3 draw in regular time.
Worthing controlled much of the first half, dominating possession and testing Gloucester’s defense. Their efforts paid off in the 45th minute when Teddy Jenks capitalized on some slick passing to put the visitors ahead at halftime.
The second half saw a continued push from Worthing, but Gloucester responded strongly. A fierce challenge high up the pitch by Harry Emmett allowed Elis Watts to seize the ball and curl an equalizer into the net. Within 90 seconds, Gloucester took the lead through Joe Hanks following a turnover in possession.
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Drama unfolded five minutes later as a late challenge by Watts inside the box awarded Worthing a penalty. Jack Sprong confidently converted it to level the score once more.
Gloucester regained the advantage in the 76th minute with a swift counterattack set up by a Worthing corner. Sion Spence broke free and coolly slotted home to make it 3-2. However, Sprong struck again with a deflected effort, completing his brace and sending the match to penalties.
In the shoot-out, Gloucester opened the scoring through Hanks, with Sprong equalizing for Worthing. Spence and Brad Dolaghan exchanged successful penalties, followed by Harry Pinchard and Sam Packham. Harry Emmett’s goal put Gloucester ahead before goalkeeper Jared Thompson made a crucial save against Razzaq De-Graft.
When Marcus Day stepped up for Gloucester’s final kick, his initial shot was missed but ordered to be retaken due to a goalkeeper infringement. Day calmly converted on his second attempt, sealing Gloucester’s progress to the fourth round.
Williams expressed pride in his squad’s mental strength: “We had to adapt our game plan today, and the team responded magnificently. To remain composed at setbacks and fight back shows immense character, exactly what we need as a club.”
Gloucester now looks forward to the fourth-round draw, hoping to continue their impressive FA Trophy run for the first time in 24 years. Williams added, “Let’s be the group that makes history by winning four games in this competition. The opponents don’t matter – every draw is a chance.”
Match Details:
Gloucester City: J Thompson, Jones, Roberts, O’Regan, Williams (Day 35), Spence, Watts, Hanks, Richards-Everton, Pinchard, Emmett.
Worthing: Jeffries, Colbran, Jordan (Odokonyero 78), Cook, Ransom, Byron, Odei, Frimpong (De-Graft 67), Spong, Jenks (Packham 78), King (Dologhan 55).
Attendance: 549.
Referee: Steven Swan.