Romford survived a spirited second-half fightback from Hullbridge Sports as Chinedu McKenzie’s double proved just enough to prevail in a seven-goal thriller at Ship Lane.
McKenzie equalised for the hosts after just nine minutes – recovering from Rob Hodgson’s second-minute opener – before winning a penalty which Matt Mitchell converted to put Romford 3-1 ahead by the break.
Jamie Dicks’ close-range header had earlier put the Southern League Division 1 North side ahead, with McKenzie seemingly sealing victory after drilling a shot inside the near post.
The Emirates FA Cup
Preliminary Round
Sunday 21 August 2016
Winning clubs receive £1925 from prize fund
By Ross Lawson
Click here for results
But Hullbridge were not beaten, with Harry Skinner’s stunning strike and Luke Hornsley’s composed finish setting up a grandstand finish from which the underdogs fell just short.
Romford will now make the short trip to Essex rivals Harlow Town in the first round qualifying.
Elsewhere, Worksop Town have been forced into a replay in their 109th FA Cup campaign, with fellow Step 5 outfit Ashton Athletic battling out a 2-2 draw at Sandy Lane.
Joel Brownhill headed the visitors into an early lead before Worksop wrestled back control just a minute later as defender Richard Adams scored from a corner, while Steve Woolley volleyed the hosts into the lead.
But Daniel Smith’s penalty ensured the two will meet again on Tuesday for the right to host Mossley AFC or Hemsworth.
There will also be a replay between Beaconsfield SYCOB and Marlow on Tuesday after Anaclet Odhiambo pounced upon a loose ball to equalise for the visitors in the 89th minute.
Chris Ovenden had earlier given Marlow the lead, while Ollie McCoy and Charlie Losasso gave Beaconsfield a lead they couldn’t hold onto, despite the Blues missing a penalty.
Biggleswade United won’t need a replay however, as a superb Charlie Black strike just three minutes from time was enough for them to overcome Aylesbury United 1-0.
The visitors had Tom Wyant to thank for a string of fine saves, setting up a tie at Hitchin Town.
Hastings United are also confirmed a place in the first round qualifying with a 2-0 victory over Cray Valley.
Steve Watt got the faintest touch on a free-kick to put United ahead before Sam Cole sealed the tie in the 57th minute.
Finally, Canterbury City and Pagham will have to do it all again on Wednesday, with Scott Murfin equalising for the hosts despite City opening the scoring after just 35 seconds through Gary Mickelborough.
