Hucknall back on form to reach first round of the FA Vase

Yellows, of GCE Fleet Hire United Counties League Premier Division North, went into the second qualifying round tie with Leicestershire side Saffron Dynamo, of the Midland League, without a win in four in league and cup.

But they put that right as goals from Callum Orange and Issa Gaye had them in control at half-time before Kofi Appiah added a third in stoppage-time at the end for a 3-0 win .

Hucknall’s composure also played a key part in the win as the frustrated the visitors were ultimately forced into costly errors, that resulted in a player being sin-binned and another being sent off.

Yellows’ reward is now a first-round tie at Premier Division North leaders Belper United on October 10.

And joint-managers Jonathan D’Laryea and Rudy Funk were delighted to see the team respond to last week’s criticism to get their tactics ‘spot on’.

Funk said: "Things didn't go quite the way how we wanted them to go for the last couple of weeks so we tweaked little bits and pieces and it worked to a tee."

D’Laryea added: "I was just impressed with our discipline, our togetherness, and our determination to stick to what we said in the dressing room.

"Every single sub that came on was brilliant and they raised the intensity."

Cup joy turned to disappointment on Wednesday, however, as Hucknall were knocked out of the Nottinghamshire Senior Cup 5-4 on penalties at Division One side Clifton All Whites after the tie ended 1-1, Callum Orange with Hucknall’s goal.

Yellows are back in league action on Saturday at home to Ashby Ivanhoe (kick-off 3pm).

A milestone game took place at the RM Stadium last Sunday as Hucknall Town Women played their first-ever match at step six of the women's football pyramid, just three years after they were formed.

Arnold Eagles were the visitors and the game was an even contest for 70 minutes before Arnold’s experience told late on as they ran out 5-1 winners.