Eastbourne Borough 0 Gravesend 1

MANNY OMOYINMI sent Gravesend through to the last 32 of the FA Trophy with his side’s only shot on target as they beat Eastbourne Borough in Tuesday’s third round replay.

The former West Ham, Gillingham and Oxford striker made the breakthrough in the 42nd minute when Lee Protheroe provided the pass for him to beat a couple of defenders before stroking the ball home. The Fleet are now Kent’s sole representatives in the competition.

After the match, Omoyinmi said: "It was a tough game but I felt we showed a lot of character on a most difficult pitch. We set our stall out and kept another clean sheet so you can call it a satisfactory night’s work."

Fleet, who were held to a goalless draw by the Conference South side at Stonebridge Road on Saturday, will be at home to Southern League Histon in the fourth round on Saturday, February 5

Eastbourne had the wind at their backs during the first half when the Fleet defence had to remain resilient.

The visitors, playing a 4-4-3 formation, always looked confident at the back and Eastbourne were allowed few opportunities. From one, Tuck fired in a 30-yard drive that just beat the post.

Stuart Playford was cautioned for a reckless challenge on Adam Drury in the ninth minute which left the Fleet midfielder hobbling.

Strong Eastbourne appeals for a penalty were rejected by referee Steve Rubery after a free-kick appeared to be deflected over the crossbar by the arm of a Fleet defender.

Omoyinmi’s goal spurred the Fleet but they were to suffer a setback in the second half when the injured Drury was replaced by Moussa Sidibe.

The visitors were forced to defend for long periods early in the second half and goalkeeper Paul Wilkerson did well to tip over a shot from Smart.

Manager Andy Ford was forced to reshuffle his side again when Sidibe broke down 33 minutes into the half and was replaced by youngster Luke Moore. He belied his youth with some smart play as he linked up well with Omoyinmi and Roy Essandoh.

Gravesend: Wilkerson; Gledhill, McCarthy, Saunders, Jackson; Protheroe, Surey, Pinnock, Drury (Sidibe 50 (Moore 81)); Essandoh, Omoyinmi. Substitutions: Sidibe for Drury, Moore for Sidibe. Subs Not Used: Harris, Skinner.

Attendance: 557.