Mayor and Deputy Mayor celebrate with the Haywards Heath Town FC

Hanbury Stadium was buzzing with pride and anticipation on Saturday 6th December 2025 as Haywards Heath Town FC welcomed Berks County for their long-awaited home fixture in the 3rd Round of the Isuzu FA Vase. With the team now among the final 64 clubs left in this prestigious national competition, the afternoon carried a real sense of occasion both on and off the pitch.

The club was honoured to host the Town Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Haywards Heath, invited as special guests to witness this important moment in the club’s campaign. After battling through a series of away fixtures - East Preston, Roffey, Molesey and London Samurai Rangers - this was the first time HHTFC supporters had the chance to cheer their side on at home during the 2025 Vase journey.

Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Haywards Heath with the HH Town FC team

Kick-off commenced at 3pm under crisp winter skies, with both teams showing determination worthy of a knockout tie.

The FA Vase - officially the Football Association Challenge Vase - remains one of the most iconic tournaments for clubs competing at Steps 5 and 6 of the English National League System. With over 600 teams taking part each year, reaching the later rounds is an achievement in itself. The prospect of Wembley Stadium at the end of the competition only heightens the drama of each round.

And drama is exactly what unfolded. After a hard-fought match that could not be settled in normal time, the tie advanced all the way to sudden-death penalties. In a heart-stopping finale, Haywards Heath Town FC held their nerve and secured a memorable victory, sending the home crowd into jubilation and marking another step forward in their FA Vase adventure.

It was an afternoon of footballing spirit, community pride and unforgettable tension - everything the FA Vase is known for - and Haywards Heath Town FC march on. They proudly stand among the final 32 teams.