Swifts began brightly, hoping to emulate similar FA Cup campaigns but the stalemate in this second qualifying round was broken by the visitors in the 18th minute, Trevor Paul netting courtesy of slack Swifts' defending.

Swifts reacted well, a Tony Adcock header from a Mitchell Springett free kick being well saved by Romford's Stuart Horne.

Romford were the sharper side at this stage, moving with purpose with Darren Pitcher bossing their midfield. For Swifts Ben Lewis was covering well to prevent a further goal.

Simon Parker was taken out in the area on 34 minutes, but Springett's fierce spot kick was straight down the middle and goalkeeper Horne saved with his body.

He did the same again shortly after, saving well from Springett's free kick.

At the other end Kingsley Banks dived full length to save as chances started to come at both ends.

Romford dominated the beginning of the second half, with Swifts on the back foot. Banks was immense in the Swifts' goal although Romford could and should have increased their lead before they did so in the 68th minute.

Mervin Abraham rounding the Swifts defence to increase Romford's lead.

Swifts needed to go forward, and so they did. Adcock prodding home 10 minutes later after Adam Gillespie and Alex Fiddes shots had been well saved.

Sub Ross Taylor prompted well from midfield when he came on, and he set Nicky Simpson free to put in two dangerous crosses.

Taylor's own free kick was just wide and Terry Warwick's shot on the turn was held by Horne.

It was too little too late for Swifts, and Romford earned the right to go forward to the next round.

Heybridge: Banks, Cranfield, Cutbush (Taylor), English, Lewis, Gillespie, Simpson, Parker, Springett, Adcock (Warwick), Fiddes.

A Heybridge forward on the attack during the FA Cup game on Saturday.

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