On a bitterly cold night, Wingate & Finchley warmed the hearts of supporters with their best performance of the season to progress to the next round of the Ryman Youth Cup. The away side had the first clear cut opening of the match but a lob from the edge of the area over the onrushing keeper sailed over the bar. However, that was the only real threat to Alex Flett’s goal in the first half as the Blues kept their first clean sheet of the season, with Leon Skinner and Keiron Street outstanding at the back. As the half developed, Wingate’s midfield started to control the game with Daniel Glaude instrumental in linking defence and attack. It was Glaude who turned sharply on 25 minutes, strode forward and unleashed a 25-yard strike that flew wide. Elliott Green, switched to a more attacking role on the night, was unlucky to see a sweet right foot drive hit the inside of the post on 37 minutes. However, three minutes later Wingate took a deserved lead when another long range effort from Glaude found the far corner of the net. Alex Flett made an important save soon after the restart to keep Billericay at bay. But soon Wingate were back in their stride. A far post header from Leon Skinner was cleared off the line and another effort from Daniel Glaude created panic for the Billericay goalkeeper, clutching the ball at the third attempt. As a place in the next round drew ever nearer, the excellent Ben Ellis sliced a right foot shot wide and then embarked on a fine run and cross which substitute Anthony Bailey failed to convert on his Wingate debut. Bailey’s pace and power was a menace to the Billericay defence and helped the Blues to comfortably see out the remaining minutes. Wingate’s league form has been a shadow of their cup successes so far this season. The team should be proud of their performance and take great confidence for the trip to London APSA on Sunday. Man of Match: Leon Skinner Team: Alex Flett, Leon Skinner, Rob Blackman, Sam Kaye, Keiron Street, Chibueze Anyaegbu, Leigh Hatton, Shai Revivo, Ben Ellis, Elliott Green, Daniel Glaude. Subs used: Michael Yu, Anthony Bailey, Lee Flavin