Sam Long's outstanding performance propelled Bromley to a stunning 5-4 penalty shootout victory over Ipswich Town in the Carabao Cup first round, following a 1-1 draw. The League Two side demonstrated resilience and determination against their Championship opponents, securing their place in the second round.

The game started with both teams creating early chances, as Bromley's Deji Elerewe and Ipswich's Chiedozie Ogbene threatened within the first two minutes. Ipswich gradually gained control, and a flowing move involving Jack Clarke and Leif Davis led to Conor Chaplin narrowly missing the target just before halftime. However, it was Bromley who took the lead on the stroke of halftime when Elerewe headed in from a corner.

Ipswich responded strongly after the break, with Ben Johnson equalizing in the 53rd minute after Chaplin's initial shot hit the crossbar. Both sides then searched for a winning goal, with Bromley's Marcus Dinanga denied by Ipswich keeper Christian Walton, and Long making a crucial save to keep out Johnson. Long also saved from Sam Szmodics late on, while Ali Al-Hamadi couldn't convert Johnson's cross at the death.

Ultimately, the match went to penalties, where Long proved to be the hero. He saved two Ipswich spot-kicks, including a crucial stop from Al-Hamadi. Marcus Ifill then stepped up to fire home the winning penalty, sending Bromley through to the next round.

Bromley's starting lineup featured Long in goal, with a defense of Elerewe, Sowunmi, and Odutayo. Ifill, Thompson, Arthurs, Krauhaus and Pinnock made up the midfield, while Dinanga and Kabamba led the attack. Ipswich made eight changes to their usual starting eleven. Walton started in goal, with Young and Kipre making their first competitive starts for the club. Davis and Woolfenden completed the defense, while Barbrook and Humphreys partnered in midfield. Ogbene and Clarke retained their places in the starting XI, with Chaplin captaining the side behind lone striker Al-Hamadi.

The victory marks a significant achievement for Bromley, who have progressed to the Carabao Cup Second Round for the first time in their history. Last year, they were knocked out in the first round by AFC Wimbledon.