Grays Athletic and Leiston FC played out a goalless stalemate in their FA Cup first qualifying round clash on a tense Saturday night in Essex. Neither side could find a breakthrough, meaning the tie will be decided in a replay at Victory Road, Leiston’s home ground.

Chances at a premium

The match was far from a classic, with both defences firmly in control throughout. Grays enjoyed the better of the opening exchanges and came close when a low drive from the edge of the box was tipped around the post by the Leiston goalkeeper. The visitors responded with a dangerous spell just before half-time, but a last-ditch block denied their striker from point-blank range.

Second half stalemate

The second period followed a similar pattern, with midfield battles taking centre stage and clear-cut chances rare. Leiston pushed for a late winner and thought they had found it in stoppage time when their forward headed home from a corner, only for the assistant referee’s flag to cut short the celebrations. Grays then almost snatched it at the death, but their effort drifted narrowly wide of the upright.

Replay date set

As the FA Cup so often delivers, the draw leaves everything to play for. Both clubs will now prepare for a replay that carries the promise of a place in the second qualifying round.