Bridlington Town produced a stirring second-half comeback to draw 2-2 with Curzon Ashton FC in the English FA Trophy on 24 October 2026, recovering from two goals down to keep their cup hopes alive.

Match overview

Curzon Ashton FC started the stronger of the two sides, pressing high and forcing Bridlington Town into early mistakes. The visitors’ dominance paid off midway through the first half, and when they doubled their lead before the break, the tie looked to be slipping away from the hosts. Bridlington, however, refused to fold. A tactical adjustment at half-time gave them a foothold, and the home crowd responded as their team pushed forward with renewed belief.

The second half was a different contest. Bridlington won more second balls, got their wing-backs higher and began to test the Curzon defence with crosses and set pieces. The comeback was completed late on, and both sides had chances to win it in a frantic final period.

Key moments

• 17th minute: Curzon Ashton took the lead when Danny Osei tapped in from close range after a low cross from the right.
• 36th minute: Lewis Hardcastle doubled the advantage with a firm header from a corner.
• 58th minute: Bridlington pulled one back through Ryan Caulfield, who finished calmly after a neat exchange on the edge of the box.
• 81st minute: Joe Wilkinson equalised with a powerful strike from the edge of the area, sparking wild celebrations.
• 90+3rd minute: Curzon almost won it late, but a goalbound shot was blocked in front of the goalkeeper.

Tactical story

Curzon Ashton’s high press caused Bridlington problems in the first half, especially in central areas where the hosts struggled to play through. Bridlington switched to a more direct approach after the interval, using their wing-backs to stretch the pitch and getting more bodies into the box. That change forced Curzon deeper and allowed Bridlington to sustain pressure for longer spells.

Curzon still looked dangerous on the break and had chances to restore their two-goal cushion, but Bridlington’s increased intensity and willingness to commit players forward turned the momentum. The hosts’ set-piece deliveries also became a major threat as the game wore on.

Standout players

Ryan Caulfield was the catalyst for Bridlington’s revival, scoring the first goal and constantly demanding the ball in dangerous areas. Joe Wilkinson’s equaliser capped a strong second-half display, while the Bridlington goalkeeper made a crucial save at 2-1 to keep the comeback alive. For Curzon Ashton, Danny Osei was a constant menace in behind, and Lewis Hardcastle controlled the midfield before the hosts’ late surge.

Season impact

The draw keeps Bridlington Town’s FA Trophy run alive and gives them a replay to look forward to, while Curzon Ashton will be frustrated at letting a two-goal lead slip. For Bridlington, the performance is a confidence boost and proof of their fighting spirit. Curzon, meanwhile, must regroup quickly and rediscover the control they showed in the first half.