BILLERICAY Town boss Dean Brennan was full of praise for his side as they claimed a 1-0 win over Hampton & Richmond Borough to book a place in Monday's FA Trophy first round draw.

A Jake Robinson spot-kick proved the difference between the National League South rivals.

And Brennan was pleased to pick up Town’s first clean sheet in eight outings.

“I thought we were excellent in periods of the game,” said the Billericay boss.

“Considering the way we lost to Chesterfield the other night, the second half performance shows the character we’ve got to bounce back.

“Hampton & Richmond is a difficult place to come, but the players showed a lot of character, togetherness and heart.

“It’s just great to win 1-0 - that’s my favourite scoreline because I think they’re the results that bring you success.”

Moses Emmanuel saw his fifth minute strike deflect onto the post as Billericay got off to a dominant start.

Robinson thought he had headed the visitors in front on the hour mark, but the frontman’s goal was ruled out.

Hampton striker Chris Dickson struck the post before Robinson fired home from the spot.

The hosts finished the clash with 10 men as Rian Bray picked up two yellow cards.

Billericay Town: Julian, Kizzi, Kennedy, Doe (Modeste 23), Inman, Deering, Waldren, Clifford (Coombes 65), Robinson (O’Hara 84), Emmanuel, Howells