Ely City have made an early exit from the FA Cup ... but not before giving higher level Holbeach United a scare.

The Robins took a surprise lead through Spencer Saberton at Holbeach in the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round on Saturday, with the game ending 1-1.

Anticipation was high for last night’s replay at Unwin Road, but the visitors showed their class in a 4-0 win.

Josh Ford headed in Andrew Tidswell’s free kick for Holbeach’s opener, before Gary King doubled the lead from Ollie Pinner’s assist.

King got his second, and Holbeach’s third, heading in Tidswell’s free kick. Former Wisbech Town player Ford completed the scoring.

Manager Brady Stone said: “Holbeach’s quality came through. They took their chances and we didn’t take ours. That was the difference.

“Saturday was a great performance and I feel we played well last night. We can take the positives and move on.”

After the disappointment of losing their first Thurlow Nunn First Division game last week, Ely will be looking to put their first points on the board when they host Downham Town on Friday night.

Saberton, who missed the replay, is “50/50” to return. Otherwise, Ely should be at full strength.

Stone said: “I watched Downham Town last year and they are a big, physical side who will work hard.

“The players need to be ready for a tough game.

“The FA Cup is done now – we must concentrate on the league and getting our first points on the board.”