Bristol Manor Farm suffered a disappointing 3-1 defeat at the hands of Easington Sports in the FA Cup Preliminary Round, despite showing early promise at Addison Road, writes William Ledbury.
The match got off to a great start for Manor Farm when new signing Louis Britton half volleyed home the opener and giving Farm their first goal of the 2024/25 season. The early breakthrough was just what the side needed, and for much of the first half, Manor Farm controlled the game and created several chances more. George Dowling recycled a Jayden Nielsen corner, and young defender Harry Lucas could only head into the grateful arms of Adam Doyle. However, it was a tale of set pieces that ultimately defined the afternoon. On the stroke of half-time, Easington Sports equalised through Jake Humphries, who found the net from a well-delivered corner. This late goal shifted the momentum just before the break, leaving Farm with work to do in the second half.

The second half saw a determined Manor Farm side push for a lead, but it was Easington who struck again, capitalising on their strength in set pieces. Two headers in quick succession within five minutes sealed Farm’s fate, leaving them with an uphill battle. Despite the setback, Manor Farm continued to press, showing grit as they sought a way back into the game. George Kellow and Jacob Spence entered the afternoon’s action and certainly gave their side a big lift of energy. Nielsen came close with a drilled effort, but substitute goalkeeper Treml did very well to smother the ball. After a lengthy spell of additional time, the referee’s whistle finally blew and Manor Farm’s FA Cup journey would be cut short at the first hurdle. The focus now shifts to a busy August bank holiday period, with crucial league matches against Bideford and Cribbs on the horison. The Farm will need to regroup quickly as they look to bounce back and get their league campaign on track.