Thackley AFC faced a tough challenge in the extra-preliminary round of the 2023-24 FA Cup when they clashed with Goole AFC. The match proved to be an intense battle, culminating in a dramatic 3-2 victory for Goole AFC during extra time.
Thackley AFC made two crucial changes to their starting lineup from their previous game, where they suffered a narrow defeat against Barton Town. Greaves was replaced by Claridge, and Ellison-Tope gave way to A. Mitchell, who was making his first competitive start since his return to the club.
The game kicked off with Thackley AFC quickly asserting themselves and creating early opportunities. Luke Wilson initiated a promising attack from the back, finding Mark Everingham, who passed to Chippendale. However, Goole AFC managed to clear the ensuing cross by Claridge, who struck a powerful shot from the edge of the penalty area that narrowly missed the target.
Goole AFC capitalised on a misplaced pass in Thackley AFC’s midfield, forcing Billy and Hudson to make crucial blocks to deny their attempts on goal. Thackley AFC then seized a counter-attacking opportunity with Green leading the charge and finding Chippendale and Claridge in support. Chippendale won a corner from a run down the right but Hudson’s header from inside the six-yard box couldn’t convert the chance.
In the 13th minute, A. Mitchell came close to opening the scoring as he skillfully controlled the ball and manoeuvred past a defender before hitting the post. Barford reacted swiftly and managed to claw the ball away before Claridge could capitalise on the rebound.
Thackley AFC continued to apply pressure, winning a throw-in high on the left after a lengthy stoppage due to a Goole AFC injury. McCready’s throw found Green, who cleverly chipped the ball into the penalty area where Claridge met it with a narrow-angle attempt that was flagged offside. Thackley AFC swiftly regained possession from the free-kick, with Chippendale showcasing his skills to elude three Goole AFC players before being dispossessed just inside the penalty area.
The home side’s persistence paid off in the 26th minute when Green again chipped the ball into the path of Claridge, who enticed the goalkeeper off his line. Barford made contact with Claridge, resulting in a penalty, which Chippendale calmly converted to give Thackley AFC a well-deserved first-half lead.
However, Goole AFC responded with determination and managed to equalise in the 39th minute. A corner kick caused chaos in Thackley AFC’s penalty area, and Romeo Madhamu found the back of the net to level the score.
Just before halftime, Thackley AFC regained their lead through a set-piece. A free-kick from Chippendale was brilliantly saved by Barford, but the resulting corner saw Claridge rise above the defenders to head home from close range.
The second half started with Goole AFC on the offensive, hitting the crossbar through Kral’s effort and testing Luke Wilson with Gelder’s close-range shot. In the 64th minute, Goole AFC capitalised on a defensive error as Wilson’s clearance fell to Washington, who scored a stunning goal from 30 yards to equalise once more.
Tempers flared during the match, with Green and Williams receiving yellow cards for strong challenges. Goole AFC appealed for a penalty in the 82nd minute, but the referee waved away their claims. Thackley AFC also had their chances, but Barford made crucial saves to keep his team in the game.
As the match entered extra time, both teams battled hard, searching for a winner. In the 100th minute, Goole AFC’s substitute, Williams, proved to be the hero, latching onto a long ball over Thackley AFC’s defence. Luke Wilson rushed out of his area to clear the danger, but his header landed at the feet of Washington, who lofted the ball back into the net.
With no time left for a comeback, Thackley AFC’s FA Cup journey came to an end as Goole AFC emerged victorious with a 3-2 scoreline. It was a thrilling match filled with excitement and tension until the very last moment.
