The Story of Binfield and the FA Trophy

Did you know that this is only the fourth season that the Moles have been competing in the FA Trophy? The FA Trophy is for teams competing in Steps 1–4 of the National League System so we only entered it following our promotion to the Isthmian League South Central Division in the 2021/22 season.

As we now start our journey in this years FA Trophy, we take a look back at how we got on in the FA Trophy in the last three seasons.

2021-22 Season

Our first ever game in the FA Trophy was away to North Leigh in the 2nd qualifying round. The game finished 2-2 with The Moles coming back from being 2-0 down after 20 minutes. We progressed through to the next round with a 4-1 win in the penalty shootout.

In the 3rd qualifying round, we were drawn away to Herne Bay. In front of a crowd of 260, the Moles won 2-0 to qualify for the first round. The Moles drew Cinderford Town for their first FA Trophy home game. They came away as 3-0 winners to continue their impressive debut FA Trophy season.

In the second round, The Moles were drawn at home against Truro City. The Moles were 3-0 down by half-time and despite second half goal from Ollie Harris and Josh Howell, it couldn’t stop The Moles from exiting the FA Trophy.

2022-23 Season

Our 2022-23 FA Trophy run started with an away game against Marlow Town FC.  First half goals came from Johnny Efedje and Jonathan Denton and there were two more in the second half from Sean Moore and Brandon Curtis. A strong performance had The Moles winning 4-0.

In the 2nd qualifying round, The Moles had yet another away cup game – this time away to Thame United. Roger Herridge’s first match in caretaker charge saw Binfield overcome Thame United thanks to goals from James Beauchamp and Taylor Morgan. The game finished 2-1 to The Moles.

In the 3rd qualifying round, The Moles drew Hendon away. In a tight game which finished 0-0, The Moles progressed with a 5-4 win on penalties.

Progressing through to the 1st round proper, The Moles had the long trip to Tavistock AFC. The Moles were 2-0 down after 30 mins and despite a late goal from James Beauchamp, they were unable to close the gap and lost 2-1.

2023-24 Season

The Moles were drawn away to Ashford United. The game was played at Chatham Town FC. It was a poor performance from the Moles and the ended up getting by 7-1. The consolation goal coming from a Ben Stallard free kick.

2024-25 Season

This season we have been drawn against league newcomers Horndean FC. The Moles have already lost 4-0 to them in the league. Can they get revenge on their trip down the A3?