Witney Utd 5 (Harper 29, Odhiambo 41, 42, 70, McMahon 51)

Erith & Belvedere 1 (Tipple 59)

Anaclet Odhiambo hit a superb hat-trick as Witney began their FA Vase campaign with a resounding victory over Kent League high-fliers Erith at a wet and windy Polythene UK Stadium on Saturday in the FA Carlsberg Vase.

Despite the horrendous weather, the pitch was in good condition, and Witney, who started the game with the strong wind at their backs, produced a superb display.

They went in front just before the half-hour when Tom Butler hit an in-swinging cross with pace, and Chris Harper got the faintest touch to head past Erith keeper Matt Bromby.

With four minutes left before half-time, Witney doubled their lead when Harper combined well with Odhiambo, who drove the ball into the net.

And Witney found the net again within a minute.

Erith took the kick-off, but JP Mills won the ball back and five passes later, Harper crossed for Odhiambo to turn the ball into the net.

The visitors were expected to use the wind in their favour after the break, but it was Witney who kept up the momentum.

Harper and Butler both went close, before John McMahon made it 4-0.

Witney were awarded a free-kick on the left, and skipper McMahon curled in an effort at the near post.

At the other end, John Okole produced a superb save to deny Danny Tipple.

But Erith did reduce the arrears through Tipple mom-ents later when a long-range strike skidded through the hands of Okole into the net.

It was to prove no more than a consolation for the visitors, however.

Twenty minutes from time, Witney added a fifth goal to kill the game off.

Butler collected a loose ball and drilled in a low cross to Odhiambo, who pounced to complete his hat-trick.

Witney will await today’s draw with interest as they take their place in the last 64 of the competition.