Joint boss Paul Cousins praised the travelling Fenmen army for their support after they inspired Wisbech Town to a stunning 2-1 FA Vase win at Ashington on Saturday.

More than 60 fans made the 220 mile trip up beyond Newcastle to watch Wisbech knock out one of the competition’s favourites.

The Fenmen’s reward for reaching the fifth round for the first time since 1997 is another away tie at Thurlow Nunn League leaders Hadleigh United from Suffolk on February 15.

Cousins said: “The support we had against Ashington was absolutely fantastic. It was really like having a 12th man and it was great to get to celebrate with them after the game.

“It looks like the only way we are going to get a home tie is if we make it to the semi final because it is played over two legs.

“But the draw could have been a lot worse and I expect we will have just as many fans at that game as Hadleigh will.”

Tom James gave Wisbech the lead with a rasping shot from 20 yards but the visitors were pegged back in first-half stoppage time.

The second half was a scrappy affair but, with 15 minutes left, James was hacked down in the box - he picked himself up and calmly slotted the penalty.

The remainder of the game saw the Wisbech goal come under severe pressure, but the defence held firm.

Cousins said: “The past few weeks had been very disappointing but on Saturday the lads turned up and put in a great shift. They were fantastic.

“Credit to the club to for putting us up in a hotel the night before. It meant we were able to have a swim, sauna and prepare well for the game.”

Cousins says he is enjoying working alongside Dick Creasey, who was appointed joint boss after Scott Johnson stepped down earlier this month.

He said: “When Scott and I were in charge one of us would always have to be on the sidelines, and that was mainly me.

“With Dick on the sidelines, I can concentrate on playing - I have got myself fit and am playing well.

“He has lots of experience, which I can learn a great deal from.”

Danny White, Adam Millson and Tony Battersby picked up knocks against Ashington, but Cousins expects them all to be fit for tomorrow’s home United Counties League clash with basement side Harborough Town.