CHRISTCHURCH manager Ollie Cherrett said progression in the FA Vase would give the club an "extra boost".

Priory host US Portsmouth on Saturday in the only all-Sydenhams Wessex One tie in the first round (3pm).

The Hurn Bridge outfit booked their place thanks to a 1-0 win over Westbury United – having made the most of a second qualifying round reprieve.

Beaten 5-2 in Wiltshire, Christchurch were given the opportunity to restage the clash after Westbury had breached competition rules by inadvertently fielding a fourth substitute in extra-time.

A towering header from Kieran Douglas set up a date with US Portsmouth – the Navy having inflicted Priory's only league defeat this season, winning 3-0 at Burnaby Road in August.

Currently eighth in Wessex One, US Portsmouth eliminated Verwood and Southern Combination Division One Midhurst & Easebourne to earn a crack at second-placed Priory.

Christchurch banked £725 in prize money from their win over Westbury and will duel for another £825 when they do battle with US Portsmouth at the MA Hart Stadium.

Cherrett said: “It means an awful lot to get through to the next round. No matter what competition you are in, it is important to win games. But to progress in the Vase, gives everyone an extra boost.

“Confidence is high at the moment and it is good for the players to test themselves. A decent cup run gives us a break from week-to-week league games, which, in my mind, is a positive."

Cherrett added: “US Portsmouth are a good side and it will be a tough game.

“If we prepare well and perform like we have, then, hopefully, we will get through to the second round.”

Priory booked a place in the second round of the Russell-Cotes Cup following a 3-2 win over Wessex Premier Hamble Club at the MA Hart Stadium last night.

Chris Senior set them on their way with a rather fortuitous opener before Jack Satterley's second-half double sealed the victory.

Goalkeeper Jason Collins played a starring role for Priory with a series of top-drawer saves including one from Sam Wilson's second-half penalty.

Meanwhile, Christchurch won the Wessex One club-of-the-month award for September.