Wellingborough Town produced the standout result of the round, winning 3-2 at Nantwich Town in a five-goal FA Trophy thriller that swung one way and then the other before the visitors finally edged it.

Match Overview

FA Trophy ties on 12 September 2026 produced plenty of drama, and few games matched this one for entertainment. Nantwich Town, on home soil, twice dragged themselves back into contention, but Wellingborough Town's attacking quality and resilience in the closing stages proved decisive in a genuinely breathless cup contest.

Five goals, momentum shifts, and a tense finale made this exactly the kind of fixture that defines the romance of non-league knockout football.

Key Moments

• Wellingborough strike first: The visitors started positively and took an early lead, silencing the home crowd and setting the tone for an open game.
• Nantwich respond: The hosts hit back to level, using width and quick combinations to stretch the Wellingborough defence.
• Visitors regain control: Wellingborough restored their advantage with a well-taken goal, then extended the lead to 3-1 to put one foot in the next round.
• Nantwich fight back: A second goal for Nantwich reduced the deficit to 3-2 and set up a nerve-jangling final stretch.
• Late survival: Wellingborough defended with everything they had in the closing minutes to protect the win.

Tactical Story

This was a game won in the attacking third. Wellingborough's front players were sharper in front of goal and made the most of the space Nantwich conceded when pushing forward in search of goals. Nantwich, meanwhile, created enough chances to take something from the tie but were repeatedly undone by lapses in defensive concentration at key moments.

The contrast between the sides was simple: Wellingborough were ruthless when their opportunities arrived, while Nantwich were made to pay for their generosity at the back.

What Happens Next

Wellingborough Town advance in the FA Trophy with a result that will do wonders for belief in the squad, adding a memorable away scalp to their season. For Nantwich Town, the defeat is a frustrating one — they scored twice at home and still exited — but the performance offered enough evidence that their attacking play can hurt opponents in league competition.

Quick Facts

• Final score: Nantwich Town 2-3 Wellingborough Town
• Competition: English FA Trophy
• Result: Away win
• Total goals: 5