Saturday was Witham's first visit to the Unwin Ground in Ely, and they did not get off to a good start.

They went behind within four minutes when a free kick by Steve Wilkinson sailed into the net, completely deceiving Tony William in the Witham goal.

Witham equalised in the 16th minute when after a throw in near the corner flag, Grant Wedlock crossed the ball and Chris Bassett headed home powerfully.

Bassett had another chance but headed into the hands of Ely goalkeeper, Gary Cowling.

Witham took the lead when a long pass across the pitch found Wedlock who neatly lobbed the ball over Cowling and into the net.

The home side fought back and Mike Egan shot over the crossbar and the same player headed wide just before the interval.

Witham started the second half well with Gino Defeo only inches wide with a low shot.

They went further ahead when after a mix up in the home defence, Bassett was left with an easy tap in.

Wilkinson scored Ely's second goal with a free kick to set up a frantic last 10 minutes, and Witham almost scored again when Cowling saved from Bassett.

However, the visitors held on to their narrow lead, and will travel to play St Neots in the next round.

Witham Town: Williams, Pearce, Jopson (Cowley 45 minutes), Young, Shirt, Constatinou, Poole, Nash, Battram (Defeo 35 minutes), Bassett and Wedlock.

Witham reserves lost their first game of the season to a powerful Dagenham & Redbridge side who looked strong and possible championship material.

The Witham team, that included many youngsters performed well, and Dagenham eventually won 1-0, Town player/manager Dave Flynn netting an own goal.

Witham first team are away to Banstead Athleticon Saturday in a Ryman League Division Two fixture.

On Wednesday, September 1, there is an attractive game at Spa Road when the Under 18's take on Leighton Town in an FA Youth Cup Preliminary Round tie.

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