A late Harry Johnson goal sent Elston United into the third round of the County Cup as The Clams claimed an impressive 2–1 away victory over Premier Division Stapleford Town Reserves.

The victory was Elston’s sixth in succession in all competitions – and the third consecutive game in which they have scored a late winner. Elston, playing against opponents from the division above, were good value for their victory after combining an impressive first-half attacking display with some determined defending after the break.

The visitors started brightly, with James Scott, Will Veys and Rui Thacker all threatening. Their best early opportunity came after 28 minutes when Barney Repper broke down the right and delivered an inviting cross, but Veys was just unable to convert at the far post.

Thacker then forced a save from the Stapleford goalkeeper before Ryan Fletcher fired narrowly wide from distance. Despite having the better of the first half, Elston went into the interval with the scores still goalless.

Four minutes after the restart, Stapleford made them pay. A superb piece of skill created space for the home striker, who curled an excellent finish into the top corner. Elston’s response was immediate. Just a minute later, Scott released Veys down the right and the striker raced into the penalty area before confidently finding the far corner to make it 1–1.

Stapleford then enjoyed their best spell of the game, but an Elston defence superbly marshalled by skipper Sam Lloyd restricted the hosts largely to efforts from distance, while Christian Costoiu made a couple of important saves.

Elston remained dangerous on the break and a series of substitutions gave The Clams renewed energy as the game entered its closing stages. James Clarke almost put Elston ahead in the 84th minute, but the visitors had to wait only another minute for the winning goal.

Scott beat his man on the left side of the penalty area before drilling a low cross across goal, where Johnson arrived to side-foot home and spark the celebrations. It was another victory built on quality, discipline and resilience – and another demonstration of Elston’s growing belief that games can be won right to the final whistle.

Elston United: Cristian Costoiu, Barney Repper, James Smith (Charlie Catley 75), Sam Lloyd, Toby Craven (Jude Hazzledine 40), Tom Hazelwood (Miles Hopewell 85), Harry Scott, Ryan Fletcher, James Scott, Rui Thacker (James Clarke 75), Will Veys (Harry Johnson 75)