MANAGER Jeff Lamb is hoping Ascot United can enjoy another long run in the FA Vase after successfully negotiating a tough first hurdle last Saturday.

Despite fielding a depleted squad, the Yellamen won 1-0 against Hollands & Blair in Gillingham thanks to a brilliant goal by substitute Gavin Brainch deep into stoppage time.

United must travel again in the second round, going to Sussex to play Newhaven, currently mid-table in the Southern Premier Division.

Ascot boast an impressive record in the Vase, having reached the quarter-finals in 2013 and 2015.

With players missing, Lamb was forced to include himself again on Saturday, only to suffer a calf injury.

“It was largely a backs to the wall job,” he said.

“It was a tough game, but we knew it was going to be. They had more possession, but we battled hard and defended well.

“The Vase is a bit special for this club and hopefully we can have another good run this season.”

Commenting on Ascot’s late winner, Lamb told the News: “They left two back against our three.

“(James) Goodey put the ball over, (Jamie) Westy missed it, but Gavin was there on the back post to volley it home with his right foot – I was a bit surprised as I didn’t know he had a right foot!”