Deep into the night of Wednesday, 17th September 2025, Marko Protic was left in acres of space inside the Bury Town box, Gabriel Ipanga found our number fourteen, and he fired us into the Third Qualifying Round of the Emirates FA Cup. The goal sets up a thrilling tie with Step Three side St Albans City, who were a National League South club this time last year.

Here's what Marko had to say, looking back at the goal and looking ahead to the upcoming tie, which takes place on Saturday, 27th September, as well as a word on our supporters and our start to the Essex Senior League campaign.

Scoring the winner in an Emirates FA Cup Second Qualifying Round Replay tie must be a highlight of your career?

"Absolutely. Scoring in the FA Cup is always special, but to get the winner in a replay makes it even better. These are the moments you dream about as a kid, and it’s something I’ll always remember."

It was the second time we headed for extra time in an FA Cup replay this season, having already beaten Harlow Town in the Preliminary Round through a 117th-minute winner from Alex Kozak. On both occasions, we have had the Ashton's crowd right behind us from minute one, all the way until the very last kick.

"The fans backed us for 120 minutes again, is anything possible with them behind us?"

"The fans were unbelievable. Their support gives us that extra 10% when we’re tired or under pressure. When you’ve got that kind of backing, you really do feel like anything’s possible. We’re all in this together."

Looking ahead to the future now, what do you think it will take to beat another Step 3 side in St Albans City?

"We know it’s going to be another big test. St Albans are a strong side with quality all over the pitch, but we’ve shown already that we can compete at this level. It’ll take hard work, discipline, and everyone sticking to the game plan - plus a bit of belief that we can cause an upset."

The Woods have already played fifteen games in all competitions so far this season, as we approach the end of the second month of the campaign.. It has seen a huge collective effort from all involved, whteher that be the players, coaching staff or backroom team.

Focusing on the Essex Senior League, as well as the FA Cup, how difficult has it been to juggle that with so many rearranged games?

"It’s definitely been challenging. The schedule’s been hectic with games being moved around, but that’s part of football at this level. We’ve just got to manage the squad carefully and stay focused on one game at a time. The lads have been brilliant in adapting."