FC Isle of Man take impressive win to progress in FA Vase

Murray nets brace with Higgins and Clark on scoresheet

FC Isle of Man produced a ruthless display today as they emerged 4-1 winners away to Billingham Town in the first-round proper of the FA Vase.

The Ravens took to the pitch at Bedford Terrace on the back of three narrow defeats in their last three outings.

Meanwhile, their hosts, Billingham Town, came in with an impressive league record so far, sitting top of the Northern League Division Two.

The home side made a lightning start within the first minute to take the lead when Andrew Nelson netted from close range.

But the Ravens responded to the early setback well and were level just eleven minutes later when Luke Murray - making his 50th competitive appearance for the club - powered a header home to make it 1-1.

The Island side managed to control large periods of the first half and were rewarded again on 41 minutes when defender, Karl Clark, rose highest in the penalty area to nod home a Jack McVey free-kick.

Leading 2-1 at the break, the Ravens then had to soak up some strong pressure from the home side early in the second period with FC IoM stopper, James Rice, forced into some important saves.

But with ten minutes left, FC IoM punished Billingham Town on the break when Murray became provider for Charlie Higgins who met Murray's low cross into the box before taking a touch and slotting home into the corner for 3-1.

Billingham Town then pushed hard for a route back into the contest but the Ravens then made sure of the victory in second-half stoppage time.

The excellent Murray bagged his second of the game and FC Isle of Man's fourth arriving at the back post to tap in a Ste Whitley cross from close range.

The win sees FC Isle of Man progress to the second round proper of the FA Vase for the first time.

Their next game will be in the NWCFL Premier Division on Tuesday, 25 October, away at Wythenshawe Town.