ROMSEY Town made Portland United fight every inch of the way for their 3-2 FA Vase first round success at the Bypass Ground.

Two goals from Tom Richardson and a Max Buckler strike ensured the Sydenhams Premier visitors just about limped over the line.

At 2-0 up, Portland appeared to be in control, but Rian Jima-Otero pulled Romsey back to 2-1 before half-time and it took until five minutes before the end for Buckler to net the Islanders’ third.

The Bypass boys weren’t finished, however, and Dan Fox struck again for the battling Sydenhams One underdogs late on.

Romsey boss Andy Samuels said: “We’ll take loads of heart from that performance. We were very unlucky, a draw could have been a fair result.

“I’m very proud of the lads.”

Romsey’s kick-off was brought forward to 2pm due to floodlight issues at the Bypass Ground. The club have applied for grants to get the problem sorted.

Bemerton Heath Harlequins are still in the competition, but Graham Kemp's men have work to do after being held 2-2 at home by Plymouth Parkway after extra time. The replay is in Devon on Saturday.