Hashtag United ended Deal Town’s run in the FA Trophy with a 3-1 victory at Charles Sports Ground on Saturday, in a match that showcased the competitive nature of Step 4 football. Despite initial concerns that the game might be postponed due to Storm Boelo, a morning inspection of the pitch confirmed that the fixture would proceed as planned.

Hashtag United took an early lead in the fifth minute, with club joint-top scorer Misha Djemaili finding the net. Deal Town, playing at home, responded just before halftime when Ben Chapman, known for his consistent scoring record, equalized. The teams remained level heading into the second half, with both sides pushing for an advantage.

The decisive moment arrived shortly after the hour mark when Jaden Crowhurst put Hashtag back ahead. Deal Town pressed to find another equalizer, but Hashtag sealed the victory in stoppage time through Ellis Devereux, who added a late goal to confirm the Tags’ progression in the tournament.

This encounter marked the first FA Trophy meeting between the two Step 4 clubs, both competing in the Isthmian League North division. Prior to this match, Hashtag United had struggled to find consistent form, coming off a 2-2 draw with Witham and a 2-0 defeat to Tilbury, leaving them temporarily in third place in the league standings. The win on Saturday thus offered a welcome return to winning ways for the Essex-based side.

Deal Town, despite the loss, demonstrated resilience against a strong Hashtag United side and will look to regroup as the season continues. The victory sends Hashtag through to the next round of the FA Trophy, continuing their pursuit in the national knockout competition.