HIGHWORTH Town began their attempt to emulate last year’s FA Vase run with a 2-1 second-round win over Toolstation League high-flyers Odd Down.

John Fisher’s side, who made it all the way to the semi-final of the competition last season, booked their place in the third round courtesy of goals from Aaron Maximen and TJ Bohane, with Kye Simpson notching a late consolation for the visitors.

In a first half dominated by the hosts, it was Maximen who had the first chance when Callum Parsons' goal-bound cross was headed over by the forward from less than a yard out.

However, Maximen was able to make amends for his howler on the half-hour mark after Dan Drewett has earned his side a corner, forcing Odd Down stopper Stuart Jones into a good save.

Brad Clark took the resulting set-piece and Maximen was on hand to head home the in-swinging kick and put the home side 1-0 up.

Highworth kept the lead going into the break but were fortunate not to be pegged back when the visitors missed from the penalty spot.

Liam Edmondson was adjudged to have handled in the box from a low cross but Simon Gilbert fluffed his lines and saw his shot bobble past the post.

After the break Highworth were able to double their advantage from the 12-yard spot.

Parsons was able to drive into the box and just before getting his pass off was pushed to the ground. Bohane stepped up and, despite a slip, was able to beat Jones.

Odd Down were able to get themselves onto the scoreboard three minutes into added time when Simpson was found at the back post to slot home with virtually the last kick of the game.

Meanwhile, in the Hellenic League Premier Royal Wootton Bassett were beaten by struggling Milton United.

Harry Dalton struck either side of the break to bring an end to Bassett’s run of four games without defeat in all competitions.