Radcliffe Boro 1 York City 4 RADCLIFFE Boro President Bernard Manning was still laughing despite defeat by York City in the FA Cup at Bury's Gigg Lane.
The comedian usually shocks but it was the Third Division side who sprung the surprises with four goals in the opening half hour.
It was a game too far for Boro - who had already played six matches to reach this stage but despite the result it was still Boro's greatest day in their 51-year history.
More than 2000 'home fans' cheered on the UniBond First Division side - and Bernard Manning Junior, the club's chairman, was delighted.
"The fans were fantastic. it shows the base is there and we want to build on this. It was a great day no matter what."
He may even reconsider his decision to put the club up for sale. "It's something I will have to think about."
Terry Dolan's side went ahead in the third minute through Graham Potter, who blasted home Lee Bullock's knock down.
Bullock turned the goal scorer 10 minutes later, heading home Scott Jordans' 25 yard free kick.
And number three came after Neil Tarrant raced free down the left wing and top scorer David McNiven converted on 15 minutes.
It looked as though Radcliffe were going to be on the end of a hammering of record proportions but they gradually stepped up a gear and began to pose questions of their own.
Neill Hardy had a chance to give them a lifeline but Alan Fettis in the Minstermen's goal pulled off a brilliant save to deny the Boro man.
But minutes later it was four with a spectacular volleyed effort from Jordan.
Former Manchester United midfielder Mark Dempsey saw a 20 yard free kick superbly saved by Fettis as the local side gave their fans something to cheer about.
And, after the break, Kevin Glendon's men came more into it, playing neat passing moves that did credit to their non-league status.
They got their just reward with Hardy's solo effort on 69 minutes, he turned in the area and blasted into the top corner to earn a standing ovation from the Boro supporters.
And it could have been two if Simon Carden's effort hadn't hit the post in the dying minutes.
"Radcliffe are a credit to the UnIBond division," said Dolan. "They kept going and we are just pleased to be through."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article