GREAT Wakering Rovers booked their place in the preliminary round of the FA Trophy after registering a 3-2 win over Isthmian North rivals Romford.

Adam Vyse, Aaron Russell and Billy Johnson scored the all-important goals for Garry Kimble’s side at Rookery Hill.

Although Danny Cossington and Khadean Campbell netted for the hosts, Wakering were able to gain revenge after Romford recorded a 3-0 victory over the reigning Essex Senior League champions on the opening day of the season.

And Kimble was pleased with his team’s performance.

Kimble said: “We deserved the win.

“The players know their jobs and what they’re doing in the system we’re playing in now.

“The players defended for their lives and, although we had a few missing, those that came into the team did ever so well.”

Vyse got Wakering off to a dream start by heading home, while the striker turned provider as Russell tapped home.

Cossington reduced the deficit, but Johnson restored Wakering’s two-goal cushion after the break.

Campbell netted but it was not enough for Romford.