With a series of summer friendlies complete, Herne Bay Vets returned to competitive action with an away tie against Beacon Vets edging victory in a well contested and enjoyable encounter.

After a period of dominance, Bay took the lead through a wonder goal from Matthew Huckstep but then immediately conceded after a mix up at the back.

Louis Brister was shortly after played in and he kept his head and buried a one on one to retake the lead, but a soft penalty was awarded against Herne Bay for handball and both sides went in level at the break.

After a half time chat, the second half saw a more determined and high-intensity approach from the away side, and Herne Bay retook the lead when Miki followed up his own effort after hitting the bar. Matt Carvosso then made it four, and Charlie Fournier notched up a fifth before Beacons managed a third in added time.

Overall it was a decent game and we were well looked after by our welcoming hosts; a great advert for Vets football.

Herne Bay move onto the next round, UTB!