Isthmian South East sides Sheppey United and Ramsgate among those to progress to the FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round

Four-star Sheppey made history on a mammoth away trip to Merthyr Town on Saturday, winning to book their place in the FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round.

After the 226-mile journey to Wales, Ernie Batten’s Ites fell behind in the 18th minute but quickly responded through Josh Wisson.

Fellow midfielder Richie Hamill put them ahead with 20 minutes to go, and late goals from winger Danny Leonard and substitute Oscar Housego secured their 4-1 success in front of a crowd of 989. It’s the furthest Sheppey have ever gone in the competition.

Another Isthmian South East side from Kent, Ramsgate, will join Sheppey in the hat for Monday’s draw after their 2-1 win against Southern League Division 1 South Frome Town.

Benedict Bioletti, a first-half substitute after fellow midfielder TJ Jadama came off injured, drew first blood three minutes into the second period with a header in front of a crowd of 720.

Defender Jack Parter doubled their advantage in style with his second goal in two games and, although the visitors pulled one back late on at Southwood, Ben Smith’s side held on. The Rams - like all winning sides at this stage - pocketed £5,625.

Thanet rivals Margate were knocked out, though, beaten 2-0 at Chesham United as player-coach Phil Roberts came off for the Isthmian Premier outfit after just 12 minutes.

An 88th-minute Adam Coombes penalty saw Cray Valley manager Steve McKimm earn a thrilling 3-3 draw and a replay on his first return to former club Carshalton since his departure.

Defender Arthur Lee netted in the second minute for the Isthmian South East Millers but the hosts roared back to lead 3-1, only for forward Kyrell Lisbie - son of Jamaican international Kevin Lisbie - to immediately get one back in front of a 543-strong