Southend and Wealdstone Set for FA Trophy Final Clash at Wembley
Wembley Stadium sets the stage for a marquee display of grassroots football this Sunday, May 17, as Southend United and Wealdstone face off in the Isuzu FA Trophy final. The match serves as the centerpiece of Non-League Finals Day, a celebration of the sport’s lower-league talent that includes the FA Vase final between AFC Stoneham and Cockfosters.
For Southend United, the appearance offers a chance at redemption. The club is aiming to put last season’s painful National League play-off final defeat behind them with a decisive victory under the iconic arch. Southend manager Kevin Maher, who experienced the grand stage during his own playing career, expressed the magnitude of the opportunity for his current squad.
“Having done it as a player, I know what it feels like to lift trophies and I want the players to feel it too. I want them to feel it more than myself, it’s a privilege for me to coach and manage them and I think for the staff as well it’s a great honour.”
— Kevin Maher, Southend Manager
On the opposite side, Wealdstone enters the fixture with historic momentum. This match marks the club’s maiden appearance at the new Wembley Stadium, a milestone for the organization and its local supporters. Manager Gary Waddock reflected on the significance of the event, noting that the venue remains the pinnacle of the English game for players and staff alike.
“It’s every kid’s dream to go to Wembley and I mentioned that to the players throughout the week… But for me, as a local lad, going back to Wembley as a manager of this football club I’m delighted.”
— Gary Waddock, Wealdstone Manager
Key broadcast details for the match include:
- Kick-off time: The FA Trophy final is scheduled to begin at 4:30 p.m. local time.
- Television coverage: Viewers can catch the action live on TNT Sports 4.
- Streaming options: The match will be available for streaming via HBO Max.
- Pre-match programming: Coverage for the final is expected to begin at 4:00 p.m.
The broadcast schedule reflects the growing integration of traditional linear sports channels and digital streaming platforms, ensuring that fans of non-league football globally can access the event. With the FA Vase final occupying the earlier slot on TNT Sports 5 and HBO Max, the day is designed to showcase the depth of the National League and its associated tournaments.
As both clubs look to cement their place in history, the atmosphere at Wembley is expected to be charged with the unique passion that defines non-league football. For Southend, a win would validate a difficult developmental cycle, while for Wealdstone, it represents the crowning achievement of an unforgettable tournament journey.
