Epsom & Ewell faced another North Division side in the League Cup, making the gruelling 130-mile midweek journey to take on Wallingford & Crowmarsh. The squad welcomed back George Owusu, who played for the club last season, along with new signing Naseem James. Callum Wilson also returned to the starting line-up.

The Salts started brightly but struggled to penetrate the opposition’s box, with their long balls being dealt with too easily by the Wallingford defence. It was the hosts who broke the deadlock in the 19th minute through James Williams.

Kevin Kardel produced a fine save in the 26th minute to keep Epsom & Ewell in the game, and despite their efforts, the score remained 1-0 at half-time. Hopes of a second-half improvement quickly faded as the Salts struggled to string passes together.

Wallingford doubled their lead in the 62nd minute when James Williams netted his second of the evening. Just five minutes later, Luke Miller brought down his marker in the box, conceding a penalty and receiving a booking in the process. Williams stepped up and completed his hat-trick in the 68th minute, making it 3-0 to the hosts.

The Salts responded by making four substitutions, with Campbell Scott, Ethan Brazier, Naseem James, and George Owusu replacing Jack Torbett, Sean Anderson, Kionte Gillfillian-Waul, and Luke Miller. Despite creating several late chances, Epsom & Ewell were unable to find the net and ultimately crashed out of the Cup. A disappointing night ended with a long journey home for the team and supporters.