Hastings delivered a five-star performance in the FA Cup at Kettering last night to leave boss George Wakeling bursting with pride.

Wakeling's side, who are sixth in the Dr Martens premier division, thrashed Conference strugglers Kettering 5-0 at Rockingham Road to clinch a place in the first round proper of the competition for the first time in their history.

United will travel to Stevenage, another Conference side, in the next round after this astonishing win.

Stuart Playford, playing in an unusual midfield role, opened the scoring and goals from Landry Zahana-Oni (two), Steve Yates and Ellis Remy completed an historic win for Hastings.

Wakeling said: "That performance surpassed my expectations but it shows the spirit and the togetherness we have been building for the last two years.

"I am so proud of them and I appreciate the supporters turning up because it is a long way to come.

"I told the lads before the game this is for them. Most of the players have never experienced playing in the first round of the cup. I am disappointed not to have drawn a League club but we'll have to go to Stevenage and do it again."

Club stalwart Playford added: "It was great. To win by that much was really special."