SOCCER
Berkhamsted beat Southend to reach FA Cup first round for first time
Jeffrey Sekyere’s late winner completes a 2-1 comeback at Roots Hall for the seventh-tier club.
Berkhamsted reached the FA Cup first round proper for the first time after coming from behind to beat Southend United 2-1 at Roots Hall on Saturday, October 17.
Jeffrey Sekyere scored the winner with two minutes remaining in the fourth qualifying round tie. The result sent the Southern League Premier Division South club past its National League opponent and into Monday’s first-round draw.
According to the Football Association’s report, Lewys Twamley put Southend ahead just after the half-hour mark, reaching a rebound first and scoring for Kieron Dyer’s side.
Luke Andrews equalized before halftime after breaking through the defense. Berkhamsted goalkeeper Hubert Graczyk then kept the score level with a save in the 82nd minute.
Sekyere met a cross from the right to settle the match in the visitors’ favor. Berkhamsted plays in the seventh tier of English soccer, two levels below Southend. The first-round draw takes place October 19, with League One and League Two clubs joining the competition.
