COWES Sports put in a convincing performance to defeat Brockenhurst and progress to the second qualifying round of the FA Vase today (Saturday).
However, there was disappointment for East Cowes Vics as they exited the competition at the first hurdle, losing 3-0 at Melksham Town.
For Cowes, the home crowd at Westwood Park were treated to a good match featuring three Cowes goals, two saved penalties, a red card and plenty of crunching tackles.
Darren Williams gave the side an early lead before skipper Gareth Bricknell doubled the advantage. Brockenhurst had a penalty well saved by Shane East just before the break, but early in the second half it was Cowes's chance to score, when Bricknell was shoved by an opponent, who was sent off for the challenge.
Unfortunately, Williams's spot kick was tame, and was easily saved.
Bricknell made amends in injury time however, with a cool finish to make it 3-0.
In the Sydenhams Wessex League Premier Division, Newport remain unbeaten but did drop two point at ten-man Bemerton Heath Harlequins
They took the lead through Mark Augustus, before Bemerton equalised. Iain Seabrook regained the advantage when he scored from a penalty but Bemerton, who had a man sent off, levelled once more and held on for a point.
The Wyvern League also got underway today, with Newport beating Team Solent 4-0 in the East Division, and East Cowes Vics beating Verwood Town 4-2 in the West Division.