IAN Street rates his side’s performance in Sunday’s FA Vase success at Bishop Auckland among the best of his tenure.

The visitors played the second half with 10 men after debutant Adam Bayley was sent off, but progressed to the third round following a 4-1 victory.

Matthew Beadle scored twice.

“He tore them apart,” said the 1874 Northwich manager.

“I asked him to occupy both of their central defenders and to be in the box as much as possible. He did, and the reward was a couple of goals.

“It was a day when everybody played a part, I was made up we stuck to our game-plan from start to finish even after having to change things at half time.

“We had to soak up pressure after that. We were nervous on the touchline, but the lads said they felt comfortable.

“I think Bishop Auckland were shocked at how good we were if I’m honest.”

1874 were paired with North West Counties League Premier Division rivals Glossop North End in Monday’s draw.

The tie is scheduled for Saturday week, at Barton Stadium.

Street told the Guardian that everybody was surprised to see Bayley, signed last week from Huws Gray Alliance club Penycae, receive a red card following a tangle off the ball with an opponent.

He added: “The referee hadn’t spotted anything, but the linesman flagged furiously.

“Adam says he fell on top of their guy, but we were told he kicked out at him on his way down. I don’t know what happened.”

To win by such a score away to a Northern League side has caught bookmakers’ attention, with 1874’s odds to lift the trophy shortened to 16/1.

That makes them third favourites.

Street said: “I asked the players before kick off if they were big game performers. This was one of the most important matches we’ve played, and they answered that question.

“We fell short in the crunch matches last season when we were still finding our feet.

“I think the group has the characters in it now to perform under pressure or when expectation is higher.”

To read a report on yesterday's match, click here: http://bit.ly/1FkEHuV