HARTPURY University reached new heights in their history by advancing to the FA Vase fifth round for the first time with a narrow 1-0 victory over Fareham Town on Sunday.

The decisive moment arrived in the 17th minute when a looping cross evaded the Fareham defence, allowing Louie Manning to strike decisively at the back post. That goal not only sealed victory but extended Hartpury’s unbeaten streak to six games.

Fareham Town, enjoying their first-ever fourth-round appearance, gave a spirited performance, pushing Hartpury to the final whistle but ultimately falling short.

Hartpury nearly opened the scoring earlier, with Luke Salter coming close in the ninth minute. Salter’s shot, after finding space in the box, bobbled agonisingly wide. Further chances followed, with Leon Machisa having a header cleared off the line in the 34th minute and firing another attempt over moments later.

Declan McCarthy, Fareham’s goalkeeper, denied Hartpury a second goal with a brilliant save in the 37th minute, diving to stop Salter’s effort from the edge of the area.

Fareham rallied after the break, with Alfie Bridgman threatening an equaliser in the 54th minute, only for his shot to be deflected narrowly past the post. The visitors grew frustrated as penalty appeals went unanswered, but Hartpury’s defence remained resolute.

The hosts had late opportunities to double their lead, with Salter rattling the crossbar in the 75th minute and Ben Baxter firing over from close range three minutes later. Despite Fareham’s determined second-half display, Hartpury held firm to secure a hard-fought victory.

A club spokesperson reflected on the momentous occasion: “It was a massive day for Hartpury University FC. Into the last 16 and the dream of a final at Wembley Stadium is getting closer.”