STEP-UP Harrow Hill and Soudley ...there's nothing guaranteed to raise the pulse rate more than a good old-fashioned cup tie and, sure enough, these two long-standing rivals produced the goods.

In the end home advantage and a well organised and stubborn Harrow Hill defence edged out the valley boys.

"Soudley gave a good account of themselves but I thought we edged it and at times played very well," reflected manager Martin Reid.

The Northern Senior League division one side knew they would have to play their hearts out against Soudley who operate just a league below them and wanted to prove the difference was, at most, marginal.

"It was a bit tasty at times and there was plenty for the crowd to enjoy. We went two up early on before Soudley hit back with a goal just shy of half-time. The second-half was stalemate. Soudley made more chances than us but our back three defended very well," said Reid.

Having established themselves in the division last season, Reid is now aiming for a top five position.

"There are a lot of factors such as injuries to take into account but I have strengthened the squad with some new signings. The pre-season work has gone well and the signs are pretty good," he said.

Among those to join the Harrow Hill army are Terry Adams and Dave Taylor, both of whom played for Soudley last season. No doubt it added spice to cup tie.

Harrow Hill made a dream start when after only five minutes Darren Weyman scored from a Jamie Reid cross. Fifteen minutes later Hill went two up.

"It was a cracker," said Reid. "Scott Morgan, gave the Soudley 'keeper no chance with a low drive from 20 yards out."

A foul by Lee Morton on Paul Johnson enabled Soudley to draw back a goal with a penalty by Liam Nelmes. The score encouraged the visitors to launch a series of second-half attacks but they were generally contained by a sound defence well organised by Tom Burford. Lee Morton also enjoyed a fine game.

"Centre midfielder Scott Morgan was my man-of-the-match. He not only scored a great goal but was full of energy and all over the field. He had an outstanding game," said Reid.