Carlisle City had done their homework – and it paid off in the first round proper of the FA Vase.
Manager Jim Nichols had been to watch opponents Longridge Town twice and that helped as his side eased through 5-1.
“It worked perfectly actually. I knew they passed the ball well and kept possession but I thought we could hurt them from set pieces.
“That’s what got us our two first-half goals – from a corner and a throw into the box – and once we got a third it was virtually all over.
“They did pull one back from the penalty spot but never seriously looked like troubling us despite having a fair bit of the ball.
“We await Monday’s draw with interest, and certainly will be hoping for a home draw as we fancy ourselves against anyone from our level on our own ground.
“At the moment we might not have a game next week in the Northern League, just waiting to see what they come up with.
“We should play Redcar Athletic but their FA Vase tie was postponed yesterday and will take preference on Saturday,” said Nichols.
Defender Jack Dickinson scored the two openers in the 19th and 541st minutes with Callum Birdsall adding a third six minutes into the second-half.
Dean Ing scored from the spot for Longridge after 66 minutes but City wrapped-up the tie with a brace in the 77th and 88th minutes.
