Just days before their FA Cup opener, Matthew Stenson has been handed the green light to lead AFC Telford United into the 2025-26 competition — a massive relief for the Shropshire club after fears of a suspension threatened to derail their momentum. The 31-year-old striker, born March 16, 1994, scored a staggering 32 goals last season, single-handedly dragging the National League North side to promotion and smashing club records that had stood for over a decade. Now, with disciplinary issues resolved by the Football Association, Stenson will line up at New Bucks Head Stadium on Saturday, November 2, 2025, against an opponent still to be confirmed. The timing couldn’t be better. Fans are buzzing. The squad is hungry. And for the first time in years, AFC Telford genuinely believes they can go deep in the FA Cup.
From Suspicion to Celebration
The drama unfolded quietly but intensely. On October 28, 2025, the Shropshire Star broke news that Stenson might face a suspension following an alleged incident during a league match against Nuneaton Borough — a heated encounter that ended in a 3-2 win for Telford but left officials reviewing video footage. Within hours, social media exploded. Fans feared losing their talisman just as the FA Cup qualifying rounds were about to begin. The club stayed silent. Then, the next day, came the statement: “All disciplinary matters have been satisfactorily concluded.” No fine. No ban. Just a clean bill of health. "It was a tense 48 hours," admitted Manager Kevin Wilkin in a post-announcement interview. "Matthew’s value isn’t just in goals. It’s in presence. In belief. We didn’t want to start this journey without him."The Record-Breaking Season That Changed Everything
Stenson’s 32 goals in the 2024-25 campaign didn’t just win games — they rewrote history. He surpassed the previous single-season record of 28, set by club legend Dave Challinor in 1991. He became the first Telford player since 2007 to score in six consecutive league matches. His 12 headed goals alone tied the club’s all-time record for aerial dominance in a season. According to Soccerbase.com, he also added seven assists — a rare blend of power, positioning, and instinct. Flashscore.com’s profile (player ID: dlWVVgVg) shows he’s never received a red card in his professional career. The FA’s review reportedly centered on a disputed challenge that, upon replay, was deemed a legitimate tackle. "He’s a finisher, not a fighter," said one league referee who reviewed the footage. "That moment? Pure instinct. No malice."
The Cup Run Begins — And Why It Matters
AFC Telford United enters the FA Cup at the Fourth Qualifying Round, a stage where non-league clubs dream of giant-killing. Last season, a team from the same division, Blyth Spartans, knocked out a League Two side and drew national headlines. Telford’s ambition is similar. With Stenson leading the line, and a squad featuring forwards like Adan George and Emmanuel Ilesanmi, they’ve got the firepower. The club’s official website, in a piece titled "Stenson Again, Olé Olé," didn’t mince words: “We’re not here to make up the numbers.” The stadium, nestled in Wellington, Shropshire, TF1 2NB, will be packed. And for the first time since their 2004 founding after the collapse of the original Telford United, the club feels like it’s on the cusp of something bigger.Behind the Scenes: Leadership and Legacy
Chairman Tom Davis has been the steady hand since 2019, guiding the club through financial turbulence and fan unrest. But this season? Different. "We’ve invested in youth, in analytics, in scouting," Davis told local media. "But we also knew we needed a focal point. Matthew became that. Not just statistically — emotionally." The club’s promotion to the National League North wasn’t just about points; it was about identity. Stenson’s goals gave the town something to rally behind. Local pubs now sell "Stenson 32" T-shirts. Kids in the community wear his number. And now, with the FA Cup looming, that identity could reach far beyond Shropshire.
What’s Next? The Road Ahead
If Telford wins their first FA Cup tie on November 2, they’ll face a team from the National League — possibly FC Halifax Town or Woking FC — in the First Round Proper. A win there could mean a home draw against a League One or even Championship side. That’s the magic of the FA Cup. And if Stenson scores? The world might notice. "We’ve had players go on to bigger clubs," said Wilkin. "But this? This is about proving that a club like ours can compete — and win — on the biggest stage."For now, the focus is Saturday. The pitch is ready. The fans are chanting. And Matthew Stenson? He’s just doing what he’s done all season — showing up, scoring, and making everyone believe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Matthew Stenson under threat of a ban?
Initial reports suggested a disputed challenge during a match against Nuneaton Borough raised concerns about potential misconduct. The Football Association reviewed video evidence and concluded the incident was a legitimate tackle with no intent to injure. No disciplinary action was taken, clearing Stenson to play in the FA Cup.
How significant is Stenson’s 32-goal season for AFC Telford United?
His 32 goals broke the club’s 34-year-old single-season scoring record and were the primary driver behind their promotion from the Northern Premier League to the National League North. He also set new benchmarks for headed goals and consecutive scoring streaks, making him the most prolific forward in the club’s modern history.
Where does AFC Telford United play their home matches?
The club plays at New Bucks Head Stadium in Wellington, Shropshire, TF1 2NB, England — the same ground they’ve called home since their formation in 2004 after the original Telford United folded. The stadium holds just over 7,000 fans and will be packed for their FA Cup opener.
What’s the significance of the FA Cup for a sixth-tier club like AFC Telford?
The FA Cup offers non-league teams a rare chance to face professional clubs from higher divisions — and earn life-changing prize money. A win in the First Round Proper could bring a £100,000 payout and national TV exposure. For a small club like Telford, it’s not just about football — it’s about survival, pride, and legacy.
Who are the key players supporting Stenson in the FA Cup?
Forwards Adan George, Emmanuel Ilesanmi, Ricardo Dinanga, and Rhys form a dynamic attacking unit around Stenson. Midfielder Lewis Hogg provides creativity, while goalkeeper Alex Gulliver has kept 11 clean sheets this season. The entire squad is built for cup football — compact, physical, and lethal on the counter.
When will AFC Telford United’s next match be confirmed?
The opponent for their Fourth Qualifying Round tie on November 2, 2025, will be determined by the FA’s draw, which takes place on October 31, 2025. The match will be played at New Bucks Head Stadium, as Telford are the higher-ranked team in the draw.
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