Malawian striker’s decisive goal sends Poole Town through to second qualifying round
Malawian England-based forward Shaquille Gwengwe etched his name into Poole Town folklore on Tuesday evening, scoring the decisive winner as the Dolphins beat Didcot Town 2-1 to progress to the second qualifying round of the Emirates FA Cup.
The 25-year-old striker, who joined Poole Town for the 2025/26 campaign after an impressive spell at Dorchester Town where he netted 10 goals last season, rose to the occasion when his team needed him most. With the tie locked at 1-1 at halftime, Gwengwe found the net in the second half to break Didcot hearts and send the travelling Poole Town faithful into raptures.
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The victory came in a replay at Didcot’s Loop Meadow Stadium, after the original fixture at BlackGold Stadium had ended in a frustrating 1-1 draw for Poole Town. In that first encounter, Poole had taken an early lead through IK Hill in the 10th minute, only to see Didcot’s Tyger Hall level the score just four minutes later. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, the Dolphins were unable to find a winner, forcing Tuesday’s replay.
The replay followed a similar pattern to the original tie, with both teams going into the break level at 1-1. However, it was Gwengwe who would prove to be the difference-maker in the second half, capitalizing on his opportunity to fire Poole into the next round of football’s oldest cup competition.
Gwengwe’s arrival at Poole represents a step up for the striker, who decided to make the move after his successful stint at Dorchester Town. The Malawian international has been handed the prestigious number 9 shirt, underlining the faith that joint-managers Joe Lea and Pat Suraci have placed in him.
The striker’s winning goal not only secured Poole’s progression but also marked a significant moment in his English football journey. Having previously played for clubs including AFC Totton, Worthing, Blackfield & Langley, and Andover Town, Gwengwe is steadily climbing the English football pyramid.
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