LITTLE Oakley made history after reaching the Isuzu FA Vase second round following a fine 2-1 win at United Counties League side Godmanchester Rovers, writes LARRY DOBKIN.

Godmanchester started the brightly, with the Oakley midfield working hard to impose themselves.

It was not long before some hard tackling from Sullivan won the ball starting a counter attack finding Mann whose cross was aimed at Garrard coming in at the back post, but keeper Whitehall intercepted the ball diving across his six-yard box.

Rovers were very competitive in midfield and were awarded a free-kick 25 yards outside the Oakley box.

The ball was floated into the box and won by Halls whose header rebounded into the path of Joseph who shot just wide.

Rovers were playing well and Rogers shot was well saved by Felgate, after the ball had dropped fortunately to him in the box.

Oakley were getting more of a hold on the game and they thought they had taken the lead when Nobbs sprinted and onto the rebound and converted, after Rodger's shot was partly saved.

But with the Acorns supporters celebrating their joy was short-lived, with referee Mills ruling the goal out for offside.

Oakley had picked up the pace and were now dominant, with a fast flowing passing move between Mann and Garrard playing Rodger in on goal.

Rodger hit a low hard drive which the keeper had hands on but was unable to stop the ball rolling into the back of the goal, as the Acorns took the lead.

With half-time looming a final attack was mounted by Rovers with Chadwick finding Dear who hit a blistering shot which looked goalbound, only to be saved by the diving Felgate.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Oakley started the second half strongly and mounted several attacks but were kept at bay by some good defending from Rovers' defence.

Rodger was a constant threat and after a run down the wing and a dipping shot, the ball fell to every reliable Mann who calmly tapped home to put Oakley 2-0 up.

With Oakley having the greater possession Rodger started a mazing run across the centre of the park where his was challenged and reacted by kicking out.

Rodger had already been booked and gave referee Mills no other option than to issue a second yellow card followed by a red, leaving Oakley having to survive for 22 minutes with only ten men.

Oakley’s true spirit showed and they denied the hosts any further chances until the 85th minute when Sibbons' soft tackle gave Rovers a penalty.

The spot-kick was well taken and gave Felgate little chance to give Godmanchester hope but Oakley held out to progress.

Oakley's player of the match was Maison Lumley, after a near perfect display.