JOE Grant saved Bracknell Town’s blushes of a surprise FA Vase defeat at Hook Norton on Friday by scoring a late equaliser, writes Dave Wright.

And there was no stopping the Robins in extra-time, going on to win 5-1 in this first qualifying round tie.

Had Grant had his shooting boots on, he would have put the issue beyond doubt in the opening 45 minutes as he was the chief culprit as his side wasted numerous scoring chances.

TJ Bohane was another to squander a golden opportunity.

It looked as if Bracknell would pay for their poor finishing when the Hellenic Division One West leaders took the lead in the 56th minute.

They were awarded a penalty for handball against Alex Rodrigues with Steve Howkins beating keeper Chris Grace from the spot.

The Oxfordshire side battled hard to keep their Premier Division visitors at bay and there were just five minutes remaining of the 90 when Grant brought the scores level.

This brought a huge sigh of relief from the team, as they realised they now held the upper hand against their deflated opponents.

Adam Cornell put the Robins ahead seven minutes into extra-time and, after Bohane had made it 3-1, Cornell struck again in the 104th minute.

Hook Norton were also reduced to 10 men when a defender, already on a yellow card, brought down Bohane.

Bohane went on to score his second and Bracknell’s fifth with five minutes remaining.

The Robins can now look forward to playing Binfield at Hill Farm Lane a week on Friday, September 23 (7.45pm).

This Saturday they make the long trip to Gloucestershire to play Lydney as they attempt to improve their ninth-place league position.