Tadley Calleva march on in the FA Cup as Isthmian League Premier Division leaders Dartford crumbled in the white hot heat of Barlows Park.
The Romans may start building the road straight to Wembley Stadium, such will be the belief in a squad that has made history in the FA Cup twice this season – off the back of last seasons heroic efforts.
A difficult start, conceding after four minutes would have been a blow to the Tadley faithful – nearly 900 through the gate broke the clubs attendance record – but the Romans were result, and when you’ve got Donnacha Burke in goal, frankly, anything is possible.
Watch the winning moment:
The visitors had some gilt edge chances. Burke made an incredible double save and the Darts hit the post, but Tadley weren’t idle and created chances of their own.
A response came on 76 minutes through Charlie Barlow, slotting home after Lors Nicholas beat his men down the left to cross, and it was delirium in the Colosseum (too far?) when Brad Neal headed home a knockdown from Bradley Passfield following a free-kick in the 87th minute.
Neal and Passfield ran to the crowd, Passfield shirtless and roaring, where they were quickly mobbed by legions of teammates including Burke, who’d run the length of the pitch.
More FA Cup history for Tadley. Another incredible afternoon for Joe Lawler’s men.
Everything you need to know about the 26/27 FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round is here.
