March Town United ended Ely City’s FA Cup run with a hard-fought 3–1 victory in a pulsating replay at the GER Ground, pulling away late in the contest to secure their spot in the next round.

Following Saturday’s dramatic 96th minute equaliser from Sam Townshend that kept the Robins alive, the tie was blown wide open once more. Ely made just a single change to their starting line up, with Jev Cook stepping in for the absent Harrison Donnelly.

The home side flew out of the traps, seizing control of early momentum and breaking the deadlock after just five minutes. Ely failed to clear a dangerous ball into the box, allowing Seekings to head home and give the March supporters a dream start.

Despite the early setback, the Robins gradually fought their way back into the match. Luke Brown and skipper Jack Friend linked up neatly to create space, though Friend’s final effort was well blocked by a covering tackle. Townshend also went close shortly after as Ely started to threaten.

March matched the intensity they had shown in the first meeting, but resolute defending from the Robins, along with a sharp reflex save from goalkeeper Ben Newton ensured the deficit remained at just one goal going into the interval.

HT: March Town United 1 – 0 Ely City

Ely came out for the second half with renewed energy, pushing higher up the pitch and taking control of the territory. Their persistence paid off when Jack Friend pounced on a deflected effort, turning it home to bring the Robins back on level terms.

With the score tied at 1–1, the game turned into a tense, end-to-end battle as both teams stretched the play in search of a winner. It wasn't until the 83rd minute that the decisive moment arrived: March’s Toby Allen found room inside the area and produced a clinical finish to put the hosts back in front.

With time running out, Ely threw caution to the wind and pushed everyone forward in search of another late miracle. However, as the Robins committed body after body into the attacking third, March struck the killer blow on the counterattack in the 93rd minute to seal the win and put the tie to bed.

It was another brave, highly competitive showing from Ely City, who matched their opponents step-for-step for large spells but ultimate fell just short on the night.
The Robins won't have long to dwell on the result, they return to action this Saturday when they host Godmanchester Rovers in the FA Vase.

FT: March Town United 3 - 1 Ely City

Team; Ben Newton, Jamie Baxter, Joe Brannan, Alexander Brown, Luke Brown, Josh Collins, Jev Cook, Jack Friend (C), Alfie Rogers, Charlie Root, Samuel Townshend.

Subs Harrison Butt, Fin Logan, Tom Rigby, Joe Tarpey.
Unused: Jordan Atkin.

POTM: Alfie Rogers