Historic Harps progress in the Vase

Harpenden Town make it to the fourth round of the FA Vase for the first time in their history after defeating Haringey Borough 3-2 courtesy of goals from Dylan Joyce, Jon Clements and George Devine.

The Harps made the breakthrough on fifteen minutes - Dylan Joyce tapped home an Elliot Bailey low cross from a few yards out.

Haringey’s Adrian Clifton responded shortly after with a header to bring the league rivals level, this came moment’s after Elliot Bailey was controversially flagged for offside as he was about to double the Harps lead.

The Green and Gold showed great character and kept their foot on the gas which was rewarded as Jon Clements immediately responded to regain the lead. A poor header backwards saw Clements round the Keeper and put Harpenden back ahead.

Shortly after, the Harps made it three. Ben Spaul drove the ball up the pitch before crossing in to Henry Jones who crashed a header onto the post, but George Devine was first to the rebound slotting home a powerful low shot to give the hosts a comfortable lead of 3-1 at the break.

Conditions worsened at Rothamsted Park and Boro’s Clifton got himself a brace to get Haringey back into the game quickly after the restart.

Despite a host of chances for either side, the Harps managed to claim the win and make history.

Harpenden Town Manager Lee Hawkes was left ecstatic by his team’s performance.

He said: “Buzzing, absolutely buzzing

“The boys stuck together and were able to show what it means to everyone at the club.

“I think you see what it means to us, we’ve had a mega crowd here for a while and it’s nice to repay that today.”

Following the victory in the FA Vase, Harpenden Town face a stern test as they host the defending champions Whitstable Town in January.