Yussuf and Wright see Solihull through at Hitchin

Posted Sunday, November 11, 2018 by PA

Solihull Moors overcame a spirited Hitchin Town 2-0 to knock out the lowest-ranked team left in the FA Cup at a sold-out Top Field.

Although Hitchin went toe-to-toe with their National League opponents early on, Solihull fashioned the first clear opening, Jamey Osborne firing just over from outside the box after 10 minutes.

After half-an-hour, Hitchin midfielder Isaac Galliford jinked through multiple challenges before laying off to Ezra Forde, whose air shot came to nothing.

Solihull finished the half stronger, Canaries goalkeeper Michael Johnson standing firm behind Kwame Thomas’ powerful 41st-minute cross-shot to keep the game scoreless at half-time.

With the tie becoming scrappier, Moors’ Darren Carter, formerly of Birmingham City, received a booking for consistent fouling.

Galliford couldn’t find enough space to shoot after Ryan Boot half-cleared his dangerous through ball to Forde.

On the hour mark, Solihull broke the deadlock, Adi Yussuf sending Johnson the wrong way from the penalty spot after Noah Chesmain clumsily brought down Osborne.

Hitchin faded, and with 10 minutes remaining, Danny Wright smashed in from 10 yards after his first effort from Luke Maxwell’s corner was blocked.

And streetwise Solihull saw the game out to end the FA Cup dream for a side 62 places below them in the football pyramid.