Hedgerley FC Triumph On Penalties After 2-2 Draw At Lane End United

Hedgerley FC travelled to Lane End United 1st on 9 November 2025 for a tense cup tie, kicking off at 10:30am under the watchful eye of referee Adrian Piggitt. The match ended 2-2 after 90 minutes of hard-fought football, with Hedgerley ultimately prevailing 3-2 in the penalty shootout to progress.

Hedgerley lined up in a 4-5-1 formation, deploying Rory Scott in goal to marshal the defence. The back four consisted of Chris Smith at right back, Ryan Gibbs and Charlie Parkin as central defenders, and Bradley Oxbrow on the left flank. The midfield five featured Klodian Lusha on the right wing, Billy Long, Adam Butler, and Jack Butler occupying central midfield roles, while Ollie Parkin operated on the left side. Leading the line was lone striker Andrew Bailey, tasked with converting chances created by the midfield. The substitutes available were Mason Parr-Mckivett and Tyrese Weekes.

The match began with both sides probing cautiously, but it was Lane End United who struck first, breaking the deadlock in the 27th minute. Hedgerley’s defence was caught out as the home side capitalised on a momentary lapse to take a 1-0 lead going into the break.

After the interval, Hedgerley emerged with renewed vigour. Andrew Bailey was the catalyst for their revival, netting an equaliser in the 57th minute to level the scores. Just six minutes later, Bailey doubled his tally, this time expertly finishing a well-timed assist from central defender Charlie Parkin, who ventured forward to deliver a precise ball into the box.

Hedgerley’s joy was short-lived as Lane End United responded immediately, restoring parity in the 67th minute. The visitors made their first substitution shortly after, with Mason Parr-Mckivett replacing right midfielder Klodian Lusha in an attempt to inject fresh energy into the side.

The match grew increasingly physical, with Billy Long receiving a yellow card in the 68th minute for a late challenge. Hedgerley made a second change two minutes later, bringing on Tyrese Weekes for central midfielder Jack Butler to shore up the midfield as the game intensified.

Discipline continued to be an issue for Hedgerley, with left back Bradley Oxbrow shown a yellow card in the 80th minute. The tension peaked in stoppage time when Adam Butler was sent off after receiving a red card, reducing Hedgerley to ten men as the match drew to a close.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Hedgerley held firm to force the game into a penalty shootout. The shootout was a nerve-wracking affair, but Hedgerley edged it 3-2, securing their passage to the next round of the cup.

This encounter showcased Hedgerley’s resilience and fighting spirit, with Andrew Bailey’s brace proving crucial in keeping their hopes alive. The defensive unit, led by Charlie Parkin and Ryan Gibbs, had their moments of vulnerability but also contributed significantly, particularly with Parkin’s assist. The midfield battled hard but discipline issues nearly cost them dearly. Ultimately, Hedgerley’s composure from the spot made the difference in a gripping cup tie at Lane End United.