FA Cup Giant-Killing Drama: Hemel Hempstead Stun Yeovil in Historic Upset
Hemel Hempstead Town defies odds with a dramatic FA Cup victory over Yeovil, while lower-league clubs Chatham Town and Maldon & Tiptree script historic giant-killing acts in fourth qualifying round.

Historic Triumph for Hemel Hempstead
Hemel Hempstead Town etched their name in FA Cup folklore with a 2-1 victory against National League side Yeovil Town, securing only their third first-round proper qualification in 105 years. Despite losing Isiah Noel-Williams to a 25th-minute red card, the National League South outfit displayed remarkable resilience:
- Kyle Ajayi broke the deadlock with a clinical 39th-minute strike
- Finley Wilkinson's 87th-minute header sealed victory after Yeovil's equalizer
- Marks Tudors' first first-round entry since 2012
Kent's Double Delight
Ebbsfleet United and Chatham Town delivered shockwaves across Kent:
Team | Achievement | Notable Fact |
---|---|---|
Ebbsfleet United | 2-0 win vs Solihull Moors | Clean sheet against National League side |
Chatham Town | 2-1 upset of Tonbridge Angels | First first-round entry in 97 years |
Essex Underdogs Make History
Maldon & Tiptree (Isthmian North) emerged as the competition's lowest-ranked survivors:
- Sixth consecutive FA Cup victory
- Freddie Sears' header secured 1-0 win
- Survived second half with 10 men
- Former EFL stars Macauley Bonne debuted
Late Drama Across Grounds
- Sutton United escaped humiliation at seventh-tier Farnham Town with 98th-minute equalizer
- York City toppled highest-ranked club Rochdale 2-1
- Hartlepool required 89th-minute leveler at Gainsborough Trinity
Road to Wembley Heats Up
With Monday's first-round draw looming, these underdogs have already written unforgettable chapters:
- 5/142 non-league clubs progress
- National League leaders York City emerge as dark horses
- Tamworth eyes repeat of 2022-23 third-round heroics
The magic of the FA Cup continues to deliver unforgettable moments as football's ultimate knockout competition prepares for its main event.