After almost a months lay-off Whitenap finally returned to action with an emphatic league cup victory against old rivals Itchen Manor last Sunday morning.

Playing in good conditions at the Veracity Ground in Sholing, Premier Division Whitenap started strongly as they applied plenty of early pressure to the hosts goal. However, Senior Division strugglers Itchen defended stubbornly and aided by a slight element of good fortune they held out, making several goal-line clearances. Whitenap finally took the lead when Ross Whitelock broke clear to round the advancing keeper and set up Ed Williams for an easy tap-in. However, Itchen (who are always tricky opponents) responded well and after forcing a good save from keeper Andrew Costello they soon equalised when a free-kick was drilled home. It looked like it was going to be one of those days for Whitenap who continued to squander numerous chances. Impressive defender Craig Stirling was unfortunate not to score when his bullet header was well saved. Finally their patience paid off when two quick identical goals from striker Scott Ferguson put Whitenap firmly in the driving seat.

The second half was a similar affair with Whitenap mostly in control and looking the more dangerous. To their credit Itchen Manor never gave in and showed good spirit but found the Whitenap defence hard to break down. Finally, after several good chances had been wasted Ross Whitelock put the game beyond reach when he was put clear to coolly lob the advancing keeper. Whitenap dominated the final stages but there was no further addition to the score until substitute James Wright-Green scored from a close range header to secure a good morale boosting victory and a place in the draw for Round 2.

This Sunday morning Whitenap have another tricky game when they face old league rivals Brook in the Southampton Sunday Senior Cup at Priory Park in Bishops Waltham.