THREE second-half goals saw Banbury United beat Yate Town and book their place in the FA Trophy first qualifying round.

Goals from Ricky Johnson, Callum White and Nicholas Kalakoutis helped the Puritans see off their Evo-Stik Southern League Division 1 South & West counterparts in the preliminary round.

Mike Ford’s men will now travel to Premier Division side Hungerford Town in the next round.

On Saturday, their first chance fell to Johnson on 24 minutes, but his shot was comfortably saved by Yate keeper Martin Horsell.

The hosts enjoyed more possession and Banbury keeper Jack Harding was called into action before the break to deny Kane Ingram.

At the start of the second half, Johnson dragged a shot wide from 12 yards, but made the most of his next opportunity.

After he was put through on goal, Johnson slotted the ball past Horsell to give Banbury the lead.

Four minutes later, it was 2-0 as White latched on to Zac McEachran’s pass and his shot across goal nestled in the back of the net via the far post.

The Puritans enjoyed a comfortable afternoon from there on and wrapped up the victory three minutes from time.

Mark Bell’s neat flick sent Johnson free and his cross was turned in by Kalakoutis at the far post.

Two minutes into stoppage time, Harry Horton scored a consolation for Yate.

Banbury United: Harding, White, Steedman, Martin, Wise, Gunn, Bell, Stanbridge, Johnson, Joyce (McEachran H/T), Browne (Kalakoutis 81). Subs not used: Cox, Partner, Blackstock.

Attendance: 141