What a day for Hackney Wick FC. The Wickers produced a stunning performance to beat Bognor Regis Town 3–1 at the Simarco Stadium, defeating opponents from a level above and writing a new chapter in the club’s FA Cup story.

The victory means Hackney Wick have now reached the First Qualifying Round of the FA Cup for the very first time in our history — the furthest the club has ever gone in the competition.

With regular keeper Obaid Nassim suspended following his red card at Hullbridge, 17-year-old Teddy Gerveaux was handed his FA Cup debut between the sticks. The young goalkeeper, supported by a backline featuring Gerard Thompson-Shaw, Captain Piotr Maslowski and Ben Lewis Gold with Jamie Aker and John Silva on the flanks. Gerveaux rose to the occasion superbly on a day full of character and belief.

There was also a start for 18 year old Noah Ferraz who impressed midweek.

Hackney looked the sharper side from the first whistle and deservedly took the lead on 21 minutes. Issa Sidibe beat his marker on the left wing and fired a low cross into the box where Leo Pola arrived to tap home — 1–0.
Despite being on top, the Wickers were pegged back against the run of play when Callum Laycock turned smartly from a throw-in and finished neatly at the near post for Bognor to equalise.
Sidibe almost restored the lead before the break but fired narrowly over from a good position, leaving the sides level at half-time.

If the first half showed Hackney’s intent, the second underlined their authority. Ernest’s side came out flying, pressing high and playing with a confidence that belied the step difference.

On 53 minutes, roles were reversed. This time Pola showed brilliant footwork down the right before squaring for Sidibe to slot home at the near post — 2–1 and fully deserved.
Hackney thought they had a third when Pola tucked away another chance, only to be denied by the assistant’s offside flag. But there was no denying the Wickers their history.
In the closing stages, Sidibe struck again, smashing home from close range to make it 3–1 and seal an unforgettable afternoon in Essex.

The only setback was Max Grappy having to be stretchered off with a serious injury which may have him sidelined for a while. He joins fellow midfielder Khaniel Brown on the injury list

It was a performance full of heroes. Andre Anderson claimed the official Player of the Match award, but there were at least five others who could have taken the honour on a day when every Wicker played their part.
The final whistle confirmed it: Hackney Wick FC have reached the First Qualifying Round of the FA Cup for the first time ever. A historic achievement, built on hard work, team spirit, and fearless football.

Hackney Wick FC Goals:
Pola (21’)
Sidibe (52’, 87’)
Bognor Regis Town Goal:
Laycock (29’)
Player of the Match: Andre Anderson

What’s Next?
We now wait eagerly for Monday’s draw to find out our opponents in the First Qualifying Round of the FA Cup. But first, attention turns to another cup competition — the FA Vase, as we are away to Wormley Rovers FC.

The history books are being rewritten — come along and be part of the journey.
Come on you Wickers!