Connor Jennings stars as Stockport reach the third round of the FA Cup for the first time in 13 years

Stockport County reached the third round of the FA Cup for the first time since 2007 following a 3-2 win after extra-time over fellow National League outfit Yeovil Town.

County had to come from behind twice in normal time, despite dominating for large spells of the game, before scoring in the 100th minute to secure the win. The man who was the hero of the afternoon was striker Connor Jennings.

The 29-year-old joined the Hatters on a free transfer this summer, after being released by Tranmere Rovers after a four year spell at Prenton Park. Having made 166 appearances for the Superwhites, the striker was an impressive addition with bags of experience as Stockport target an overdue return to the Football League.

Jennings did have a loan spell at Edgeley Park in the 2012/13 season whilst contracted to Scunthorpe, scoring four goals in 13 appearances. However, the striker’s goal against Yeovil was his first for the Hatters since joining permanently. 

Having had few chances of his own in normal time, the Englishman was clinical when his opportunity to take Stockport to the next round came. A pinpoint cross from Jamie Stott was nodded in by the centre-forward, giving Yeovil Keeper Adam Smith no chance.

Despite not having other notable chances before his goal, Jennings had been involved in every Stockport attack. Linking up well with strike-partner Alex Reid, the 29-year-old wouldn’t shy away from dropping deep if needed so that the talented striker could take on his man and produce an effort on goal.

However, Jennings’ late winner was a colossal kick in the teeth for the visitors, who had come so close to booking their place in the third round. The Glovers took an early lead in the second minute through Warburton and retook the lead after John Rooney equalised from the spot when Wilkinson rose highest to nod the ball in from a corner.

Albeit completely against the run of play, the goal was a reward for Yeovil absorbing pressure well for the entirety of the second half. Even after they lost the lead for the second time in the 76th minute, they were awarded a penalty with seven minutes to go.

Having scored Yeovil’s second, Wilkinson’s heroics had fizzled out as his penalty was well saved by Stockport ‘keeper Hinchcliffe. You just knew it wouldn’t be Yeovil’s day.

Stockport are one of five non-league sides in the hat for Monday’s third round draw, with one of those set to be knocked out as Canvey Island and Boreham Wood clash after the draw has taken place.

They will also have the opportunity to take on any Premier League or Championship side, as well as a handful from League One and League Two.

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