Croydon FC 0
Leamington 1

A brilliant 90th minute strike by Leamington's star striker Ben Mackey saw Croydon bundled out of the FA Vase at the third round stage.

Leamington came into this game with a big reputation. They are 10 points clear at the top of the Midland Alliance and this was their 17th consecutive win.

Success has brought in the crowds for them too and they were backed by over 200 travelling supporters.

Croydon's young team showed their nerves in the first half and Leamington definitely had the best of it.

They missed several chances as the home team continually gave the ball away and looked hesitant up front.

But they managed to keep a clean sheet and after an inspirational team talk by Kent League manager of the month Dickson Gill, they came out fighting in the second half.

It was Leamington's turn to be under the cosh as the Trams started to show the form that has turned them into contenders this season and they should have scored in the 54th minute.

Debutant Mark Whiteman slipped the ball through to Ray Freeman who was brought down by Adam Knight.

The usually reliable Matt Fowler stepped up but placed his spot kick to close to Jason Pearcey and the chance was gone.

With extra time beckoning Croydon's dreams were shattered when Mackey scored a goal out of nothing.

After swivelling on the ball, he sent a superb shot into the far corner of the net giving Danny Harwood no chance.

It was a great goal to settle the match but the Trams were left wondering what might have happened if the penalty had gone in.

Croydon: Harwood, Bennett (Murdoch 19), Watts, Young, Hill, Kirby, Davis (John 83), Dabrowa, Fowler, Whiteman, Freeman.

Subs not used: Quarshie, Price, Warner.