Representatives of the unbeaten Combined Counties League side had watched City in action at Shoreham the previous week, but any impression gained they faced an easy task proved to be wide of the mark.

Indeed, their failure to identify City winger Russell Hardwell as the main dangerman proved to be Epsom's undoing.

Playing with an attacking formation that included four natural strikers, Chichester took the lead after only six minutes.

The ball ended up in the net at the fourth time of asking, courtesy of James 'Baywatch' Temple, following a pinball-type incident where keeper Neil Harrowing stopped one effort and the post was hit twice.

Rather than defend, the Epsom players were making protests to the referee, claiming Joel Keys had been kicked in the face when Ben Vassallo missed the ball altogether.

Epsom slowly began to get into their stride, and Ross Shoefield unleashed a powerful volley across the City goalmouth on 18 minutes.

However, with the Surrey team pushing men forward in greater numbers they allowed Chichester too much space, resulting in another goal just before half-time.

Hardwell produced a majestic run down the right flank, turning opponents inside out before crossing perfectly for Vassallo to head in.

After the interval, City had the strong wind in their faces and Epsom enjoyed most of the possession.

Dale Marvell's shot brought a good save from Matt Short, and prolific scorer Robbie Burns could easily have pulled one back for Epsom had he passed to a team-mate rather than strike the ball straight at the City keeper.

It was only during the last ten minutes that Epsom applied maximum pressure.

Marvell missed the best chance when he headed wide of a virtual open goal, and sub Leon White messed up another opportunity with two minutes remaining.

Adie Girdler's side pick up £1,000 for this success and will now be at home to Shoreham in the next round on November 15.

- CHESTER BROWTON