Hereford FC Under-18s booked their place in the second round of the ZZoomm HFA Giantkillers Cup with a dramatic 9-8 penalty shootout win over local rivals Hereford Pegasus, following a tense goalless draw at Broomy Hill.

In a fiercely contested derby, both sides created chances but were denied by resolute defending and impressive goalkeeping. Jack Tolley had the first real opportunity for the young Bulls, forcing a smart save from the Pegasus keeper.

At the other end, Will Utley was in inspired form, keeping out efforts from Ossie Owen and Callum Maddy, and later producing a crucial block to deny a near-certain goal.

Hereford continued to press, with Robby Neilson and Otto Parry going close, while Pegasus threatened through Mason Zakotti and Alfie Althorp, whose late curling effort narrowly cleared the bar.

The second half saw Hereford start brightly, with Tolley again involved, setting up Parry for a powerful strike that was well saved. Pegasus responded with a flurry of chances, but Utley and his defence stood firm, with Archie Warner making a vital block and several headers drifting wide.

With the deadlock unbroken after 90 minutes, the match was decided by penalties. Both teams held their nerve through nine rounds, with Riley Bevan converting Hereford’s tenth spot-kick. Utley then capped a superb performance by diving low to his right to save Pegasus’s final penalty, sparking celebrations among the young Bulls.

The young Bulls now turn their attention back to the Midland Floodlit Youth League Southern Division, where they host Avery FC Juniors U18s next.

Final Score: Hereford FC U18 0–0 Hereford Pegasus (Hereford win 9–8 on penalties)

Many thanks to Sam Cummins for the match information.