Friday's FA Cup second-round report
- Published
League Two side Salford City reached the third round of the FA Cup for a second successive season with a 4-0 upset against League One club Leyton Orient at the Peninsula Stadium.
Orient goalkeeper Killian Cahill diverted Kadeem Harris's first-half cross between his legs and into the net for an own goal to put the hosts in front after 23 minutes.
Kallum Cesay doubled Salford's lead on the hour with a curling shot after another productive run by Harris created the opportunity.
Former Italy forward Fabio Borini slotted home eight minutes after coming on as a substitute, before Kelly N'Mai added a fourth in stoppage time after collecting a long ball over the top and beating Cahill from the edge of the box.
Salford dominated throughout, almost going ahead two minutes before the opening goal when Cahill tipped Luke Garbutt's fizzing drive over the crossbar.
City threatened to doubled their lead shortly before half-time when Cahill spilled Jorge Grant's free-kick into the path of Daniel Udoh, but his close-range shot hit the outside of a post.
After Cesay doubled the lead, the EFL newcomer teed up Josh Austerfield to lash a presentable chance over the crossbar.
Ex-Sampdoria striker Borini and Dutch midfielder N'Mai's late efforts ensured Salford have now won their past three FA Cup ties against League One opponents, ousting Shrewsbury Town 2-1 in the 2024-25 season and beating Lincoln City on penalties in the first round this season.
Karl Robinson's team, who occupy the final play-off position in the fourth tier, were able to contain third-tier top scorer Aaron Connolly, who has eight goals and four assists in 18 league appearances for the O's.
The Ammies drew then-reigning Premier League champions Manchester City on their last appearance in the third round, losing 8-0 at the Etihad Stadium.
They will discover their opponents at the same stage this season on Monday, when the draw will be made at approximately 18:40 GMT, before the televised tie between Brackley Town and Burton Albion.
