EWYAS Harold's youngsters were urged to treasure the moment after they put in a creditable performance against a strong Hereford FC squad.

With nine of the starting 11 first team regulars for the Bulls it was always going to be tough for the Herefordshire County League Premier outfit.

Manager Malcolm Watkins was left proud of his squad as they battled for the whole game despite the result being out of sight.

"We are very proud of the lads and we came here and it was a tough ask for the lads as it's a seriously higher standard that we're used to," said manager Malcolm Watkins.

"Those lads have given their all and given us 100 per cent which is fantastic.

"We have got some real gems in that team and they work so hard for us so deserve that moment. It is taking that special moment from a game like this that they can remember for a long time and they've had that."

Hereford were in a relentless mood from the start and despite scoring seven goals Ewyas Harold battling performance matched by a string of fine saves from Mike Bamborough prevented the Bulls from running riot.

"He had his moment and has done really well," added assistant manager Dave Hope speaking about Bamborough.

"He saved two penalties in the shootouts (in the previous rounds) which was massive for us as they were both close games which could have gone either way.

"We have seen the one video of the save he made from (Jamie) Cuss and he's pretty happy with that. That moment will last forever from him.

"Mike is very local and from Longtown so for him to come through and perform like he has is very good for us."

Ewyas Harold brought a vocal following of around 200 fans but despite their efforts the visitors couldn't find a way through the Bulls defence.

"We played the 4-5-1 which we do in the Herefordshire County League and we didn't play much different to that and we wanted our lads to play their own game and show some moments of excellence and that's what they've done," added Hope

"I help run a local pub and they have all come along. It was great to hear them all cheering the names and there was a bit of booing going on. For our lads that is everything we wished for."