AN injury ravaged Ely City side defied the odds to score a dramatic 3-2 win over Dereham Town on Tuesday night. The Robins were missing 10 first team players through either injury or work commitments and were forced to travel to their ambitious opponents

AN injury ravaged Ely City side defied the odds to score a dramatic 3-2 win over Dereham Town on Tuesday night.

The Robins were missing 10 first team players through either injury or work commitments and were forced to travel to their ambitious opponents with just 13 fully fit players.

Despite the disadvantage however, Trevor Munns men fought admirably and came away with a deserved 3-2 win after netting the last few minutes.

Boss Trevor Munns, said: "The team performance was fantastic. I think it says a lot about the boys who were there that despite being down to the bare bones we were able to compete and come away with a win over a side who finished in the top four last season.

"I think over the first two games this season to have got three points with the injuries we have had and with the teams we have played is a fantastic achievement, and will give us a boost for the rest of the season."

Though Dereham exploded out of the blocks, Ely managed to keep on top of their opponents defensively and, as the half wore on, grew into the game. Ely's pluck was rewarded just after the half hour mark when Robbie Mason smashed home after a goal-mouth scramble.

Mason was again involved with the second goal after the break when he picked out Richard Chadwick at the back post, with the latter volleying home in some style. Grant Robbins' introduction into the fray livened proceedings and the striker was unlucky not to seal the game on 80 minutes when he had a goal disallowed for a dubious offside.

The Robins' exertions in keeping Dereham out began to take their toll as the half wore on however, and the home side managed to level the score with just five minutes to go, one of which came from the spot.

Refusing to be cowed, Munns' side roused themselves for one more attack and the increasingly impressive Robbins was on hand once more to net after a flick on by Chadwick.

Ely play host to Wisbech Town in the FA Cup preliminary round on Saturday at the Unwin Ground.