Dix saves three penalties to see Sarries to victory

» GOALKEEPER Jon Dix was the Cheltenham Saracens hero with three penalty saves as they reached the first round of the FA Vase for the first time in 10 years.

Saracens will now host Belper United of the United Counties League Division One on October 22 after the victory over Western League side Hallen in Saturday’s first qualifying round game.

They were trailing 2-0 at half-time, but goals from Tom Hoskins and Stu Midwinter hauled them level at 2-2, before a penalty save from Dix in the 95th minute set up the shootout.

Edd Major, Midwinter, Harry Burns and Jacob Nowell all converted from the spot and Dix saved two spot-kicks as Saracens came through 4-3 on penalties.

In Division One on Saturday, Moreton Rangers enjoyed a welcome 5-1 win over Kidlington Reserves, with goals from Mani Singh, George Kirby, Jamie Goodwin, Josh Burford and Callum Briggs.

On Tuesday night, Bourton Rovers had to settle for a 2-2 draw at Littleton, after leading 2-0 at halftime.

Connor Teague and Jack Morton had

put the Cotswolds side in command but Littleton hit back. Rovers had George Callinan sent off.

Last Wednesday, Fairford Town went 3-2 to Worcester Raiders in the Premier Division.

All the goals came in the first half with Fairford going ahead when Jay Simpson played in Jamal Lawrence, who put it away.

Raiders turned the game around to lead 2-1, but Kyle Parker’s cross and was headed in by Ross Langwothy for the equaliser.

Louis Monaghan completed his hat-trick to win the game for Raiders. Fairford could not find an equaliser after the break.

In Division One, Cirencester Town Development were beaten 6-0 at Newent Town.