LITTLE Oakley progressed to the BBC Essex Senior Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history thanks to a 1-0 win over Brentwood Town, writes LARRY DOBKIN.

The Acorns secured a well-deserved victory under the lights at the Memorial Ground, against their Pitching In Isthmian League division north opponents.

Oakley started sharply when Sibbons got around the back of the Brentwood defence and found himself with a one on one with keeper Melvin Minter.

Sibbons' shot was well directed towards the corner of the goal but Minter produced a fine save, gathering the ball on the second effort.

Brentwood had a half chance when Alex Akrofi collected possession on the edge of the area and took a speculative shot which a charging Adrian Cant blocked.

Two further shots followed but excellent defending from Sibbons and Oliver Hart ensured Lawlor had no saves to make.

Wyan Reid's bending shot went narrowly wide for Brentwood before Harry Mann's driven shot flew just over, after he got the better of Connor Witherspoon.

The final action of the half saw a four-man passing move from Oakley end in Dan Rowe sending a powerful shot over the bar.

Oakley started the second half badly and a mix-up in their defence allowed Ried a good chance to give Brentwood the lead, but the shot was rushed and went wide.

Joshua Rusoke then made a surging run around the back of the Oakley defence, forcing Billy Lawlor to produce a stunning save to keep the ball out.

Oakley then seemed to step up a gear and after Rory Harman had taken a free-kick out of the air he found Mann, whose quick turn and shot found the top of the net.

Brentwood almost levelled when a deflection fell directly to Reid who had a clear sight of goal but he only managed to fire high and wide.

Oakley worked closely together to see out victory and booked their place in the last eight.

Oakley player of the match was Harry Mann, scored a goal and worked tirelessly for the cause.

Little Oakley have completed the signing of Luke Hipkin.

The attacker, who came through Sudbury's academy, has joined the Acorns from Brantham Athletic.

He is an exciting player who can play out wide or through the middle.