FA Cup debutants Sutton United delivered a dramatic performance to secure a 4-3 victory over Coventry Sphinx in a thrilling tie. Sutton United, making their first appearance in the competition, twice came from behind to claim the win against the Step 4 side at their home ground.

Coventry Sphinx took the lead in the 37th minute through Yahiya Todd, putting the visitors ahead before halftime. Sutton United responded shortly after the break when Jayden Hunter scored from a long throw to level the match. Coventry regained the advantage through Damian Kelly, but Sutton’s Joe Gildea equalized with an impressive 25-yard free-kick.

Sutton United then took control of the game, with Tom Massey scoring from outside the penalty area to give them the lead for the first time. Oli Jeeves extended the advantage after skillfully bypassing two defenders to slot the ball home. Although Joe Cairns pulled one back for Coventry Sphinx, it was insufficient to derail Sutton United's historic victory under the management of Neil Tooth.

Elsewhere in the competition, Cheadle Town progressed with a 2-0 win at Wythenshawe Town, courtesy of goals by Ethan Padden and Stephen Maylett, scored in each half. Romulus edged past Highgate United 2-1, with Charlie Gardiner and Jarrell Hylton finding the net. However, Nantwich Town salvaged a 1-1 draw against Sporting Khalsa as Josh Hancock converted a stoppage-time penalty to deny the Step 4 side.

Runcorn Town also secured a late draw in a 2-2 match against Dearne & District. Despite seeing substitute Bala Ibrahim sent off late in the game, Runcorn recovered after Dearne & District briefly took the lead through a Jamie Austin penalty. Connor Spiers quickly responded to ensure the tie ended all square.

The ties highlighted the competitive nature of the early rounds this season, as lower-tier sides pushed hard for progression in the FA Cup. Sutton United’s comeback victory illustrates the potential for underdogs to make a significant impact in the tournament.