14th September 2026

Deal Town will travel to Ashford United in the next round of the Isuzu FA Trophy following Saturday’s impressive 3-0 victory over Sheppey United.

The win not only secured Deal’s place in the Third Qualifying Round, but also marked a significant moment in the club’s history, with the Hoops now equalling their furthest ever stage in the FA Trophy.

Deal produced a confident and clinical display against their fellow Isthmian South East side, taking control of the tie with two first-half goals before adding a third late on to complete a thoroughly deserved victory.

The Hoops made the breakthrough after just 13 minutes. Deal capitalised on a mistake in the Sheppey defence before a low ball across the six-yard box found Ben Chapman, who made no mistake from close range to put the home side ahead.

The moment of the afternoon then arrived just after the half-hour mark as Deal doubled their advantage in spectacular fashion. Macca's audacious effort from inside the Deal half caught the Sheppey goalkeeper off his line and found the net, sending the Charles Ground into celebration and giving the Hoops a 2-0 advantage at the interval.

With the visitors pushing forward in search of a way back into the game, Deal took full advantage late on. The Hoops regained possession, broke forward and added a third goal in the 82nd minute to put the result beyond doubt and seal an excellent 3-0 victory.

The result sees Deal equal their furthest ever progression in the Trophy.

Monday’s draw has handed Deal another all-Kent encounter, with the Hoops travelling to Ashford United for a place in the First Round Proper. The match will be played on Saturday 26th September.

Full match and ticket information for the trip to Ashford will be confirmed and published as soon as it becomes available.

The Hoops’ FA Trophy journey continues....