From outfielders in goal, controversial red cards and goalscoring managers - the world of Non-League was back to its crazy self over Christmas, and we look at some of the main stories over the week.
Slough manager Scott Davies has become hugely popular for his work in The Rebels dugout. The 36-year-old has his side six points off the playoffs. Davies is also a player for Slough and is a regular in the side. The visitors to Arbour Park on Saturday were Chesham United, with an entertaining game ending 1-1. However, Davies stole the headlines with a fantastic strike from his own half.
Take a BOW, Scott Davies! 👏🔥
🎥 @fc_video @sloughtownfc pic.twitter.com/NzmDvvSLU3
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) December 28, 2024
Tamworth have been the non-league feel-good story of recent years. The Lambs achieved back-to-back promotions to play in the National League for the 2024/2025 season. Andy Peaks has his side punching above their weight yet again, with Tamworth sat comfortably in 15th in the league.
They have also made headlines in the FA Cup. In the first round, Tom Tonks long throw caused issues for Huddersfield, with The Terriers succumbing to a 1-0 defeat at the Lamb Ground. Tamworth were rewarded with an away trip to Staffordshire rivals Burton Albion in Round Two. The game ended 1-1 after extra time before the visitors ran out winners on penalties to secure a famous win.
The Lambs were rewarded with a home tie against Premier League Tottenham Hotspur and excitement was rife in the town. The club then announced the ticket prices - sparking mass outrage on social media, perhaps pricing many out of a once-in-a-lifetime match, with the announcement gaining nearly three million views on 'X'.
🎟️ 𝗙𝗔 𝗖𝗨𝗣 𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗥𝗗 𝗥𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗗 𝗧𝗜𝗖𝗞𝗘𝗧𝗦 🎟️
ℹ️ Please read the above information regarding the first set of criteria for our Emirates FA Cup tie against Tottenham Hotspur FC#bristolstreetmotornationtamworth | #COYL 🐑⚽️ pic.twitter.com/iV9as4sPDZ
— Tamworth Football Club (@tamworthfc) December 28, 2024
Since the return of Shaun Saunders to the club, Whitehawk have been on an upward trajectory, gaining eight points from four games. They welcomed fellow strugglers Dulwich Hamlet to the Enclosed Ground on Saturday.
The visitors took the lead from the penalty spot after 41 minutes, after goalkeeper Jasper Sheik was dismissed for bringing down the Dulwich attacker. With no sub-keeper, midfielder Rob O'Toole donned the gloves for the penalty and the rest of the match. With The Hawks 1-0 down, a man down and an outfielder in goal, they seemed destined to lose.
However, The Hamlet failed to make the superior advantage count, losing 2-1, with O'Toole making a string of impressive late saves.
A shift between the sticks for the Chief! @Robotoole7 pic.twitter.com/sQQcsPKLfm
— kyle hemsley (@kyle_hemsley) December 28, 2024
Runaway Southern Premier League South leaders Merthyr Town welcomed playoff-chasing Walton & Hersham at Pennydarren Park, looking to make it 12 wins from 13 and nine wins from ten home games. The visitors had also been in strong form, so a bumper game was expected.
However, the match was ruined after five minutes when teenager Junior Eccleston was sent off for a tackle on the edge of the box. This allowed the Martyrs to dispatch the Swans with ease, running out 5-2 winners to extend their fine run of form.
Five minutes into a massive away game visiting the league leaders.
The game has absolutely 𝗚𝗢𝗡𝗘. pic.twitter.com/1bi8YeW4ny
— Walton & Hersham FC (@waltonhershamfc) December 28, 2024
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