BEMERTON Heath Harlequins set up a trip to FA Vase winners Thatcham Town, after opening this season's FA Cup campaign with a 1-0 win over visiting Cowes Sports.

The home side were were on top from the first minute, quickly getting in to their stride and passing the ball well.

Seb Dawes cut in from the left and forced the goalkeeper in to a smart save with a curling effort. More chances came and went with Bemerton unable to convert.

The home goalkeeper was a spectator for most of the half as the back four looked in control.

After the break, Cowes slowly started to come in to game and had a bit more possession. Bemerton had two good chances to take the lead.

First, Kelvin Robinson with a header from close range was straight at the goalkeeper and then Jamie Smith rose highest from another cross to head inches wide.

As the game went on it looked like Bemerton would be making a trip to the Isle of Wight for the reply, but in the second minute of injury time a free-kick was swung in from the right hand side and the impressive Smith once again rose highest and powered his header in to the back of the net.

After the game manager Rae Hughes said: "This was a much needed performance from the lads. We have been disappointing in the first two league games so it was important we put in a performance today against an inform Cowes team.

"I have complete belief in this group but it was time for them to step up to the mark and show that to me.

"The prize money up for grabs in the early rounds this year is higher, so it is nice to also give something back to the club, who have been incredibly supportive. We now have a nice tie to look forward to at last season’s Vase winners Thatcham Town.”

This Saturday, Bemerton are back in league action at home to Bashley.