Barton Rovers beat Littlehampton Town to reach FA Trophy first round for the first time in 25 years
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Barton Rovers qualified for the first round proper of the FA Trophy for the first time in 25 years with a 1-0 victory at Isthmian Division One South East side Littlehampton Town on Saturday.
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Hide AdStriker John Shamalo scored the only goal of the game just before half time meaning Rovers will now host Isthmian League Premier Division team Folkestone Invicta, managed by former Luton Town and Ipswich Town midfielder Andy Drury, at Sharpenhoe Road on Saturday, October 26. Barton’s squad for the trip to the seaside contained four new names, with Hadley Gleeson, Jemale McKenzie, Tra Lucas and Josiah Ramsay all included having put pen to paper to join the club.
In front of a crowd of 212, the hosts went close in the early stages, firing just wide of the post, before keeper Tyler Josephs prevented the deadlock being broken on 20 minutes as he saved well from Kyle O’Brian. Rovers grew into the contest, Ashton Grant's attempt denied by a great stop from home custodian Mac Chisholm midway through the half, with Shamalo teeing up Taylor Rhiney, whose effort was also repelled.
Grant then made a fine last-ditch challenge at the other end, before the Marigolds threatened again. Barton took the lead on 38 minutes though, as Cam Hyde found Alfie Warman whose shot was saved, Shamalo following up to tuck home the rebound. Rovers looked to extend their advantage before the break as Rhiney volleyed off target and had another effort saved by Chisholm.
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Hide AdAfter the interval, Josephs made a fantastic stop early on to ensure Barton remained in front, while Warman made a brilliant last-ditch tackle as well. The visitors should have extended their lead in the final moments, Gleeson breaking free but he failed to beat the Littlehampton stopper. During seven minutes of stoppage time, Josephs produced another terrific stop to ensure it was Barton who took their place in the next round and boost their coffers by £2,450.
Rovers are back in Southern League Division One Central action this weekend as they travel to rock bottom Northwood, their hosts still without a victory in the league yet this term.
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