THERE was delight for supporters of East Thurrock United and Grays in tonight's FA Trophy clashes, but Tilbury's recent poor run of form in cup competitions continued with an early exit at the hands of visitors Whitehawk.

John Coventry's Dockers took the lead against their visitors from the Isthmian South East Division – who arrived at Chadfields with just one defeat from seven matches in all competitions in the new season – when Adam Topley put them ahead on the half hour.

It was a lead Tilbury took into the break but it lasted just six minutes into the second half when Charlie Lambert put the team from Brighton on level terms.

And just before the hour the game's deciding goal came from Joe Shelley and the Hawks held on the a 2-1 win and a date with Kent side Corinthian, who overcame Tooting and Mitcham by winning a penalty shoot-out 7-6 after a 0-0 draw.

There were few alarms for Grays Athletic who travelled over the river to Crayford to meet VCD Athletic, also of the Isthmian South East division.

Anointed Chukwu put the Blues ahead after just four minutes and goals from Sam Bantick (21 minutes) and the in-form Ronnie Winn (43 minutes) sealed the 3-0 win and a tie against Isthmian South Central Merstham in the next round.

Also set for a run out in the second qualifying round are East Thurrock United who beat visitors Sutton Common Rovers 3-1.

All the goals at Rookery Hill came in the second half with Brian Moses giving the Rocks the lead just before the hour and four minutes later Rovers' Bertie Lloyd put through his own goal.

Kevin Dionande gave Rovers some hope with a late goal but it was quickly snuffed out by Olly Spooner's quick reply in the dying seconds.

Rocks will now travel to meet visit Cray Valley PM in the next round on Saturday, 24 September.