PETERBOROUGH SPORTS 0, CURZON ASHTON 1
Curzon Ashton won through to the first-round proper of the Emirates FA Cup for the third time in the club’s history following their victory at Peterborough Sports.
The Nash triumphed at the Bee Arena through a Josh Hancock penalty in what was the first of two visits in 10 days as they will return in National League North next Tuesday.
Manager Adam Lakeland made one change in this game from the team that lost at bottom-club Bradford Park Avenue a week earlier as Sam Walker replaced the in-form Connor Dimaio.
The travelling Nash fans saw a fast-paced opening to the game as chances came and went at both ends.
Peterborough’s Connor Kennedy had an early chance but failed to hit the target.
Tom Peers had a couple of opportunities to put Curzon ahead, forcing a pair of saves from Turbines’ keeper Peter Crook.
Peers was in on goal again after 16 minutes before he was hacked down in the box, with no attempt to get to the ball, but referee Matthew Norton didn’t believe it warranted a penalty. A decision which confused almost everyone in the ground watching on.
After a frenetic opening, the game calmed down as the half progressed and chances were few and far between for the remainder as the opening period remained goalless.
There was also a quiet opening to the second half until Curzon were awarded a penalty in the 56th minute. Will Hayhurst was dragged down in the box, allowing Hancock to convert from the spot.
Despite the goal, the same lack of urgency that was seen from Peterborough in the first half remained. Neither team took control of the game as a flurry of fouls from the home side meant the game was constantly stopping and starting.
Curzon nearly sealed the game as Devon Matthews met an out-swinging corner, heading it against the crossbar from six yards.
An additional eight minutes of added time gave the Tadpoles some hope, but Lakeland’s players showed great tenacity, keeping their shape and not allowing any clear-cut chances despite the mounting pressure from Peterborough, leaving goalkeeper Chris Renshaw to have a quiet afternoon.
As the full-time whistle blew, the away end erupted in scenes of jubilation as Curzon players and coaching team embraced the fans in celebration. There was a fantastic showing of away support, as masses of fans made the journey down to Peterborough to witness a piece of Curzon history.
Next up for the Nash is another long away trip to Boston United on Saturday as they play in the Connor Dimiao derby.
Report: Ethan Ball.
- There was disappointment for Hyde United who lost 2-1 at Buxton in the fourth qualifying round as the Tigers sought to reach the first-round proper for the sixth time in the club’s history.
Jack Redshaw gave Hyde a first-half lead, but Buxton snatched victory with two goals, one a penalty, from Scott Boden in the last 25 minutes.