HARTLEY Wintney returned to the beat after a ten day break with a visit to the Metropolitan Police at Imber Court, writes DAVID GRAHAM.

A good night for the Row saw them cook up a resounding victory by five goals to one and progress into the next round of the Southern League Cup.

Hartley took an early lead when Tyron Smith headed in a free kick from Nic Ciaridini. Another headed goal brought the Met Police level before the Row regained the lead.

Romario Hart and Ross Cook combined well and the latter moved through the police ranks to shoot home.

The second half belonged almost entirely to Hartley. They edged further ahead when a Cook effort found the corner of the net. Soon after the Met were claiming robbery when an effort hit the underside of the crossbar and may have crossed the line.

However, the Row were not finished and scored two headed goals from corners. The first came from substitute Luke King converting Ciardini’s flag kick. Then as the game drew to a close Jack Ball headed in another corner.

The Row will look to continue their winning ways as they travel to Salisbury FC on Saturday.