BINFIELD are through to the last 32 of the FA Vase for only the second time in their history after beating AFC Uckfield 4-0 at Hill Farm Lane, writes Dave Wright.
The Moles always looked the likely winners of this third-round tie, although it never proved easy despite the convincing-looking scoreline.
Their Sussex visitors – whose late arrival led to the kick-off being delayed for 15 minutes – proved an extremely difficult side to break down and it took some time for pre-match favourites Binfield to turn their superiority into goals.
There was always an extra finesse and togetherness about the Moles, whose team-work was largely linked together by the outstanding Jamie McClurg, comfortably the man-of-the-match.
Having switched from Bracknell Town, the midfield dynamo has had a major influence on the team and this was his best performance to date.
The Hellenic Leaguers gave a debut to centre-back Guy Hollis, signed on dual registrations forms from National League South side Slough, and there was clear evidence he normally plays at a higher level.
Chris Grace, having recently left Hendon, made his return in goal, but he didn't have a great deal to do although he did get booked for committing a foul when racing out of his area after 11 minutes.
In front of a crowd of close to 140, Binfield took the lead in the 35th minute through a Josh Howell penalty after he had been brought down by Taylor Maddock.
Five minutes into the second half, Sean Moore forced a right-wing corner which Howell took himself and skipper Moore, coming in at the far post, directed a header over goalie Phil Hawkins into the far corner.
A limping Moore gave way to Jemel Johnson in the 67th minute and six minutes later the substitute was brought down by Hawkins, enabling Howell to slot home another spot-kick.
Five minutes later, Josh Helmore added the fourth goal, having been foiled by Hawkins moments earlier. Binfield were hoping for more success last night (Tuesday) when they took on National League side Maidenhead United at York Road in the first round of the Berks & Bucks Senior Cup.
Then next Saturday, they return to Hellenic League action, taking on Bishops Cleeve at Hill Farm Lane with both clubs locked together in the top seven of the table on 22 points from 11 games.
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