Argus Shield: Tippling 1, Bulwark AFC 4

BULWARK progressed to the next stage of the Argus Shield after overturning a strong Tippling side they had failed to beat in the last three years.

Last week's poor performance was still fresh in the memory but Bulwark kicked off in a more positive mood and played some lovely football in places.

The game was evenly matched, with both sides having their fair share of possession, until Andy Fuller picked his spot to send Bulwark 1-0 up. Dan O G Reagan's cross into the box found the head of the new and improved Fuller with pin-point precision.

Another header, this time from Andrew Methuen, made it 2-0 in the 26th minute - but Tippling then held firm until half time, allowing them opportunity to shake things up after the break.

In the second half, the hosts looked a different side, pressing hard on the Bulwark defence. Ten minutes in, Tippling were rewarded for their efforts when a well-struck shot left the visiting 'keeper with no chance.

But, just as it appeared as if the home side could complete a spirited comeback, Bulwark's Danny struck a sweet ball from 35 yards which looped over the defence and through the 'keeper's legs before going in off a post.

Jason Thomas played a crucial role in the Bulwark back line to keep Tippling at bay for the final quarter before Fuller grabbed his second of the game to hammer the final nail in the hosts' cup-run coffin. He executed a wonderful lob from just inside the Tippling half which dipped over the poorly-placed 'keeper to round off a comprehensive win.