Ware advanced in the FA Trophy after securing a victory over Brightlingsea in a penalty shootout following a tightly contested match. The game, characterized by limited clear-cut opportunities, remained balanced throughout regular time.

Brightlingsea took the lead, but Ware responded in the 57th minute when defender Joel Jackson scored an equalizer. Later, Bailey Kempster put Brightlingsea ahead again with a volley from the edge of the box. Ware continued to press for another equalizer and capitalized on a defensive error, allowing Anthony Wordsworth to level the score once more.

With the match tied, the outcome was decided by penalties. Ware’s goalkeeper, Zack Braverman, who was making his debut, played a pivotal role by saving two crucial spot-kicks. His saves included a stop that denied what would have been the winning penalty for Brightlingsea. Despite one of Ware’s penalties striking the bar, Braverman’s contributions ultimately secured the shootout win and advancement for Ware.