1946
Saturday, 19 October 1946
F.A. Cup - 2nd Qualifying Round
 
Tooting & Mitcham United
?
1 (0) - (0) 0
Wimbledon

Over 8,000 fans packed into Sandy Lane to see the two local rivals lock horns for the first time since the War. Wimbledon were at full strength but Tooting were suffering an injury crisis, so the Dons were expected to progress to the next round at the expense of their Athenian League opponents.

The difference in levels and availability made no apparent difference in the first half as the ball swung from end to end and both sides seemed certain to score on several occasions, only for the defence to gain the advantage over the forwards. For Wimbledon both Head and Stannard wasted good opportunities, the former over-running the ball when clean through and the latter kicking the ground and the ball at the same time when well placed. Kerner had a chance for the home side, but was unable to steady himself before shooting, then Edelston headed a against the bar from Nash's cross. Sargent ensured the score was level at half-time by clearning Laker's effort off the line with the keeper beaten.

Immediately after the break Tooting were on the attack and Haydock was forced to make a brilliant save when Liddiard headed Smith's centre towards goal, but the visitors took command thereafter. Stannard's shot on the turn was kept out by Hawkins before Wimbledon were convinced a Tooting defender had handled in the area, but the referee ignored their pleas for a penalty. Edelston had a chance towards the end after good play from Stannard and Head had set him free. The keeper saved his first shot, but he followed up and rolled the ball towards the empty net, but Sargent was alert and ran in to again clear off the line. With only two minutes left the home side broke away and forced a corner. Smith took the corner and, although Clarke cleared, Osborne smashed the ball through a crowd of players and it was deflected past Haydock for a sensational end to both the game and the Dons' F.A. aspirations for the season.

  • Tooting on the attack in the F.A. Cup