Bridlington Town's 2-0 FA Trophy Win Over North Ferriby United

Ethan Fairweather

Match recap

On Friday, September 19, 2025, Bridlington Town turned the Mounting Systems Stadium into a fortress, beating North Ferriby United 2‑0 in the second‑round qualifying stage of the FA Trophy. Over 650 locals filled the stands, creating a raucous atmosphere that reminded many of a league‑fixture, but the stakes were higher – a place in the third‑round qualifying round and a tidy cash prize.

The game kicked off at 7:45 pm and remained cagey for the first 45 minutes. Both sides pressed, but tight defending and a few errant clearances kept the scoreline blank. It wasn’t until the interval that the tide began to turn for the Seasiders.

Five minutes into the second half, Bridlington’s midfielder Coulson found space on the right flank, cut inside and curled a low shot past the Ferriby keeper to make it 1‑0. The goal seemed to unlock the home side; within the next ten minutes they pressed forward, winning the ball high up the pitch and forcing Ferriby into a defensive shell.

The second goal arrived in the 71st minute when a cross from the left was met by striker James Reed, whose headed finish left the opposition goalkeeper flat‑footed. Reed’s finish capped a clinical display and sent the crowd into a chorus of chants that echoed around the stadium.

Because the Isuzu FA Trophy rules forbid replays, any draw after 90 minutes would have moved straight to penalties. Bridlington’s swift second‑half surge meant the drama was avoided, and they walked off with all three points.

Implications and next steps

The victory does more than add another win to the club’s season ledger. Financially, the prize fund awards £2,250 to the winners, while the losers walk away with £575. The next round, scheduled for Saturday, October 4, promises a slightly larger pot – £2,450 for the victors and £625 for the defeated.

Beyond the cash, the win reinforces Bridlington Town’s cup pedigree. Earlier this term the club enjoyed a league triumph over Ferriby on a Bank Holiday Monday, so this derby double boosts morale and gives the squad belief that a deeper run in the competition is achievable.

Looking ahead, the team will face either a fellow non‑league side or a higher‑ranked opponent, depending on the draw. Manager Paul Hughes has hinted that his squad will rotate lightly to keep key players fresh for the upcoming league fixtures, while still fielding a strong XI for the cup.

Supporters’ expectations are now higher. The 650‑strong crowd demonstrated that there is a solid fan base willing to travel for big nights, and club officials are already planning ticket packages and community events to keep that momentum alive.

• Current prize: £2,250 for the win.
• Next‑round prize: £2,450 for advancing.
• Potential cumulative earnings if the club reaches the fourth round: upwards of £5,000.

Should Bridlington continue this form, the FA Trophy could become a significant revenue stream and a platform for players to showcase their talents to higher‑level scouts. For now, the club’s focus remains on preparing for the October 4 tie, polishing set‑pieces, and keeping the defensive shape that proved so effective against Ferriby.