Substitute Matthew Robinson’s goal saw Dover Athletic’s Academy side start their FA Youth Cup campaign with a 1-0 win against Cray Wanderers at Crabble on Wednesday night.

Robinson’s stunning 63rd minute free-kick, with what was his first touch of the ball, won the Second Qualifying Round tie for coach Mike Sandmann’s youngsters.

Sandmann’s line-up started strongly and looked dangerous going forward in the opening 15 minutes with Josh Spencer seeing his audacious attempt from just inside the Cray half saved by the goalkeeper.

Dover keeper Harry Earls was at his best to deny the visitors in a one-on-one situation before Cray hit the post with a strike from the edge of the box.

The Academy responded with a strong run by Marshall Wratten ending with his dangerous cross not being capitalised on.

Man-of-the Match Earls denied Cray just before half-time and again in the second half before Robinson struck.

Jack Cusson was fouled on the edge of the box and Robinson curled the resulting free-kick around the wall and into the bottom corner.

Dover survived a late scare with defender Jake Creed clearing an effort off the line just before the final whistle.

Dover: Harry Earls, Jack Smith, Tom Bond, Lyndon Dixon, Jake Creed, Joshua Spencer, Jordan Bartlett (Matthew Robinson 61), Shusanta Rai, Jack Cussen (James Belcher 75),  Ryan Kingsford, Marshall Wratten.

Subs not used:  Harrison Avery, Hayden Bunch, Thomas Gates