Leigh RMI, 2 Marine 0 THE solar eclipse may have gone un-noticed on Saturday afternoon, but Leigh RMI certainly dimmed the bright lights of Marine with a shock victory in the FA Cup.

Just as the new moon blocked out the sun, the Railwaymen consigned the Merseyside outfit to the same fate, before moving on to the Fourth Qualifying Round, one tie away from the First Round Proper.

It was no more than RMI deserved for they dominated Marine, who for so long have been the leading lights in non-league football.

A goal in each half was enough to see Leigh through and take their unbeaten run to 13 games, of which six have been clean sheets, a clear indication of the value of goalkeeper Dave Felgate.

The former Wales keeper pulled off a brilliant save during Marine's best spell just after the break when he spread himself to deny Andy Cavanagh from Robbie Cowley's through ball.

"We have the best keeper in non-league football," said a delighted manager Steve Waywell. "He has pulled off some outstanding saves at vital times for us this season, and he kept our lead intact against Marine.

Leigh took the lead in the 37th minute. Dave Ridings' shot was blocked and Chris Bermingham, 30 yards from goal, unleashed a left-foot drive into Kevin O'Brien's left corner.

Mick Wallace, who had an outstanding game, went close with a couple of free kicks before Chris Shaw sealed it eight minutes from time.

He latched onto a brilliant pass from Steve Walmesley, rounded O'Brien before shooting past full-back Keith Proctor on the line, for his fifth goal of the season.

"Marine have set the standards in non-league football and although we are still learning after this result people will have to sit up and take notice," added Waywell.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.