During his 17-year Hampshire career, Adie Aymes's fitness levels were legendary.

But now it is the Havant & Waterlooville squad who are benefiting from the former cricketer's relentless drive for peak performance.

He refuses to take the credit, but Aymes's fitness sessions at West Leigh Park have been a key factor in the Hawks' progress to Anfield.

Havant had to come from behind to win qualifying-round ties against Bognor Regis Town and Fleet Town and needed all their stamina to hold on to their 1-0 first-round lead at York City and their 4-2 advantage against Swansea City last week.

"We scored an 87th-minute winner at Notts County in the second round and an 87th-minute equaliser at Swansea, so I can only be chuffed to bits with the lads," said Aymes.

"We went to York City as 16-1 outsiders and it was the same when we went to Notts County, but the lads fought well against full-time players and their fitness showed fantastically well.

"I can't divulge what we do, otherwise other teams will start doing it, but it's down to the players.

"They've really gelled together as a unit and are willing to go that extra yard and try a bit harder, which is how you gain your fitness."

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