Buxton beat visitors Alfreton Town 2-1 in the FA Cup Second Qualifying Round (Saturday September 17th), thanks to goals by Scott Boden on his debut and Luke Burke, making his home debut.
Last time these sides met in the FA Cup, 49 years ago, Alfreton won and reached the First Round Proper. The eventual trophy winners were Liverpool for only the second time, beating Newcastle United 3-0, goals from Kevin Keegan (2) and Steve Heighway.
On Saturday, a simply-taken third minute goal by Alfreton's veteran skipper Matt Rhead didn't deter the Bucks, still without six injured players. Scott Boden, signed in midweek from York City, took his 15th minute equaliser well, lobbing the advancing goalkeeper, and Luke Burke wrapped up victory with an accurate low drive five minutes into the second half.
It was a close-fought contest, but Lindon Meikie, Connor Kirby, Harry Bunn and Matt Sargent controlled the midfield for much of the game and that proved crucial against a direct Alfreton side that relied heavily on the extraordinary long-throw power of defender Adam Lund. Bucks goalie Mat Hudson, another debutant, stood firm. Full Match Report HERE
Manager Jamie Vermiglio said the win had been a long time coming, but was very pleasing. "Credit to the lads for getting to second balls consistently well. Attitudes were spot on and everybody wanted to be in the thick of things. There were some excellent debuts from newcomers as well.
"It's great for the town to be through to the next round of the FA Cup. This is a big thing for the fans and they were right behind us today. Their support is so important to us. We've got a lot more hard work to do, of course, league and cup. But with this solid win on the board after a string of disappointments it's a boost for confidence and helps us move forward."