The Jam-makers are just two steps from heaven after booking their place in the semi-final of the second biggest non-League cup competition.

An Andy Brady extra-time header was enough to take Tiptree through to the last four of the Vase after another heroic performance kept their opponents frustrated.

After a lively start, Tiptree went ahead from the penalty spot on 28 minutes.

A neat move from a throw-in saw Steve Parnell slip the ball to Dave Barefield, who was sent sprawling in the box.

Parnell stepped up and used the full extent of his experience to stay calm and coolly find the net.

Their lead, however, was short-lived as the home side hit back straight away with Phil Churchill latching onto the rebound from a free-kick that was too hot to handle for Jam-makers keeper Jason Haygreen.

Tiptree came under attack in the second half, but maintained their composure to take the game into extra-time.

The first period of extra-time was goalless, but five minutes into the second period Tiptree struck.

Alex Snow, who had a fine game, made space on the flank and crossed into the penalty area.

Brady put the keeper under pressure and got the vital flick that took the ball into the net to send the Jam-makers' travelling support wild with delight.

Published Monday, March 4, 2002