Proud Horlock wants FA Cup run to inspire Jammers

Kevin Horlock is in his second spell as manager of Maldon and Tiptree, having rejoined the club in February

Kevin Horlock is hoping Maldon and Tiptree's FA Cup run will drive his team on towards promotion - and whet the appetite for more adventures.

The lowest-ranked team in the first round, who fought their way through five ties to be there, were beaten 5-1 at League One Port Vale.

But the Jammers' manager is banking on the run inspiring even greater achievements from his side, who went into the tie as Isthmian League North leaders.

"I'm hoping the lads have enjoyed the experience, because I want it to transcend into our league campaign and give us a real lift and I also want them to want more moments like this," Horlock told BBC Essex.

"We want to come back here and do it again. It's something that we can all aspire to.

"Hopefully it gives fire in the belly of the older lads in the group, but also the young lads to have that fire to want to get back to games like we have had today."

Maldon and Tiptree led at Vale Park for nine tantalising minutes after an early strike from West Ham youth team product Anisius Lewis, but were quickly overwhelmed by Darren Moore's side.

"We had them on the ropes for five minutes - we probably scored 85 minutes too soon - but what a magical moment," said Horlock, the former Manchester City midfielder.

"Obviously, it gives us hope and you start believing and dreaming but fair play to Port Vale.

"They're obviously a League One outfit for a reason. They've got real quality.

"The goals came in quick succession and they put us straight back on the back foot and put us in our place and it became a difficult afternoon after that. But I couldn't be prouder than I am of the boys. I think they've worked tirelessly today.

"Hopefully, we can learn from it and grow and take it into our league campaign."

It is back to Isthmian League North business for the Jammers on Saturday with a home game against Waltham Abbey.