AN UNDERSTRENGTH Overton side progressed through to the semi finals of the North Hants Senior Cup with a 2-1 home win over Winchester Castle.

The home side were missing several key players including first choice goalkeeper Paddy O’Brien and James Jupp who were both unavailable through suspension.

Meanwhile both Samie Aldoori and brother Laithe could not play a part due to family commitments.

This made space for Nathan Rea to take up the right back slot and Ryan Watts in goal, meanwhile Mike Pemberton and Myles Engelfield started in advanced roles.

Winchester started the game composed on the ball and looked sharp across the pitch.

Although they held the upper hand in the early stages of the game they were limited to mostly long-range efforts which in the most part failed to test Watts.

Meanwhile Overton looked dangerous on the counter attack and began to grow into the game as the first half drew to a close.

And it was this growing confidence that lead to the first goal of the game when Johnie Gurney burst past his defender down the right hand side.

The wide man arrowed a pin point cross into the six yard box which Englefield slotted home.

From the restart Overton closed down the Winchester midfield forcing them to pass back to their goalkeeper.

Chris Lavisher closed the stopper down causing a miss hit clearance which was quickly scooped up by Alex Jupp who delicately chipped over the stranded goalkeeper to give Overton a 2-0 lead at half time.

After the break it was a much more even affair with both teams trying to create chances.

But it was Winchester who struck just two minutes after the restart after some sloppy defensive play from Overton.

Overton bounced straight back and got stronger as the half went on, with both wide players getting more of the ball and providing support for the hardworking front line.

The home side comfortably saw out the rest of the game to book their place amongst fellow semi finalists Whitchurch United, Tadley Cavella and the winner of the upcoming fixture between Andover Town and Fleet.

Joint manager Jamie Fewtrell said: “Everyone was doing their bit to make sure we got the result we deserved it was extremely pleasing.

“The overall performance just highlighted that when you compete and work as a team you do get what you deserve.”

Overton host Stockbridge in the league on Saturday