Grays booked an FA Trophy fourth round visit to former Football League club Halifax with this victory at Ship Lane in an Essex derby between two Ryman Premier sides.

But it was a goal-keeping error which cost them as Grays enjoyed their second Thurrock triumph in as many months.

Hosts Fleet took a fifth minute lead when Jon Keeling set-up Kris Lee to score, but ex Canvey midfield youngster Adam Miller equalised after 29 minutes.

The goal was created by ex Purfleet favourite Martin Carthy, who only joined Grays on Christmas Eve from Billericay Town.

Then, on the stroke of half-time, a horrendous error by home goalkeeper Alex O'Reilly saw Grays grab what proved to be the winner.

Another fomer Canvey player, Wayne Vaughan, sent over a what appeared to be a harmless chipped cross intended for the far post, but O'Reilly looked certain to gather safely.

Sadly, however, he let the ball go through his hands and it virtually hit ex Football League star Carl Leaburn's head to enter the net.

Published Wednesday, January 15, 2003

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