AN early penalty from Joe Gregory secured White Ensign a 1-0 win against Colney Heath in the FA Vase this afternoon.

But Ensign’s assistant manager Nick Wibrow felt the margin of the victory should have been far greater.

Gregory scored the only goal of the game in the 13th minute.

However, they were unable to convert other chances coming their way during a bright opening.

And, despite being delighted with the win, Wibrow also admitted he feared the missed opportunities could have hurt the hosts late on.

“Initially I have to say I’m delighted we’ve won it,” said Wibrow.

“It’s been a few years since Ensign have a good Vase win under their belts.

“The result is the main thing but we made hard work of it and we should’ve won the game by half-time.

“We should’ve been three, four or five up by then but that can come back and bite you in the backside which could have happened.”

The second half was more of an even contest.

But Wibrow was pleased with how Ensign were able to hang onto their lead in the first qualifying round clash.

“I’m pleased because I knew there would be a reaction from Colney Heath in the second half and they matched us pretty well after half-time,” said Wibrow.

“But we kept our discipline and tried to do the right things.

“I’m pleased for the lads and they needed that.”

And Wibrow is hopeful the win can also be the start of a good run for Ensign in the Vase.

“I played in the Vase many years ago and it’s a huge cup,” said Wibrow.

“I’ve tried to instil that into the players and being Step 5 there’s no reason why we couldn’t go and win a few rounds.”

Ensign will now head to Cornard United in the next round in late September.

But, before then, they will be focusing on the Essex Senior League – starting with Monday’s local derby against Great Wakering Rovers who they share a ground with.

“It’s onto Monday now and a nice derby with Wakering,” added Wibrow.

“It should be good fun and an interesting game."