In a thrilling encounter at Colchester Community Stadium, Milton Keynes Dons edged past Colchester United with a 3-2 victory in the first round of the FA Cup on November 1, 2025. The match, filled with momentum swings and late drama, showcased why cup competitions are often unpredictable and exhilarating.
The match began with Colchester taking the early initiative, and it paid off when Micah Mbick netted the opener in the 26th minute. Mbick's strike put the home crowd on their feet, and it appeared that Colchester would seize control of the game. However, Milton Keynes Dons quickly responded, as Rushian Hepburn-Murphy leveled the score just eleven minutes later, finding the back of the net in the 37th minute. This moment marked the start of a back-and-forth battle, setting the stage for a captivating fixture.
The second half commenced with another goal from Colchester, as Harry Anderson, who had been in fine form, struck early in the 48th minute to re-establish their lead. Having scored a hat-trick in their previous match, Anderson's form seemed to carry on, and the home crowd erupted once more, dreaming of a cup upset.
However, the Dons would not be deterred. They found their rhythm and capitalized on a defensive lapse from Colchester when Hepburn-Murphy notched his second goal of the match in the 58th minute. With the score tied at 2-2, the tension in the stadium was palpable, as both teams sensed the momentum shifting.
As the clock approached the final minutes, the match held its breath. Just when it seemed as though the game might end in a draw, Joseph Tomlinson emerged as the late hero for the Dons, scoring in the 87th minute and completing the comeback. The goal sent the visiting supporters into raptures while leaving Colchester's players and fans stunned.
This result is significant for both clubs. For Milton Keynes Dons, the win not only secures their passage into the next round of the FA Cup but also provides a much-needed boost after struggling with form in recent weeks. Following a disappointing defeat to Bromley and inconsistency in their League Two campaign, this victory could be the catalyst they need to regain confidence.
Conversely, the defeat for Colchester United stings after a strong run. They had won four out of their last five matches, including an impressive hat-trick from Anderson against Harrogate Town. The inconsistency of their performance today is a reminder of the vulnerability that can sometimes surface in knockout competitions. While they remain competitive in League Two, this loss serves as a painful setback in their quest for silverware.
Reflecting on my pre-match prediction, I hoped that Colchester would build on their recent successes to secure a statement victory. While they exhibited flashes of brilliance, their inability to hold onto a lead ultimately proved costly. Milton Keynes Dons, contrary to my concerns about their defensive frailties, displayed resilience and poise when it mattered most.
Moving forward, both teams will have important encounters on the horizon. Colchester must regroup quickly, focusing on their League Two standing and aiming to bounce back from this disappointment. Meanwhile, Milton Keynes Dons will look to build on this momentum, hoping that their performance today can reignite their season and restore the faith of their supporters.
As the teams leave the field, the mix of elation and heartbreak underscores the drama of the FA Cup. This thrilling first round clash will be remembered not just for the goals but for the sheer unpredictability that makes cup competitions a cherished part of football culture.