DOWNTON were without several key first team players for one of their biggest games of the season, against Calne Town in the FA Vase which saw Rob Crossley making his debut in goal.

Calne were first to attack but returning Peter Fletcher back from a long-term injury kept the lively Calne Town winger at bay with some fantastic tackles.

After 20 minutes the deadlock was broken, the Irish hitman Declan McGregor struck again, a fantastic through ball from Craig Tyson saw McGregor, beat the keeper after struggling off the centre back to slot home and make it 1-0.

Downton by no means were living comfortably with the home side pressing for the equaliser. The second half saw Downton camped into the Calne half.

The Robins then should have gone 2-0 up but McGregor saw his first time volley smash off the post then the bar.

The last 10 minutes saw Downton with their backs against the wall Calne through everything they had at Downton, but the introduction of Mark Gulliver firmed up the defence.

Crossley made sure of the win by saving a sweet struck free-kick in final remaining minutes of the game.

The Robins will now face Welling AFC in the next round.

Ben Smith and Nigel Green spoke after the game and said: "There nothing like a 1-0 in a great hard fought cup tie.

"Everyone of our players must take full credit for what was a real team performance, with so many players playing in different positions it wasn’t going to be easy for them.

"When Decky put us in the lead it was a special moment to see everyone celebrate and dedicate the goal to Dan Newman who was one of our best players until recently when he was struck off his motor bike.

"We have all agreed to give our winning money to help pay for his physiotherapy as a gesture from the lads and the club to a true Robin."