CARL Macauley has claimed Witton Albion can dare to dream after they reached the FA Cup fourth qualifying round by beating FC United of Manchester.

His side eliminated another higher-ranked opponent following a 2-1 win on Saturday at Broadhurst Park, where captain Rob Hopley scored a decisive goal midway through the second-half.

The visitors protected their narrow lead, and are now a single victory away from returning to the competition proper for the first time in more than two decades.

“It’s massive for us,” said the Witton boss.

“I must admit I’ve allowed my mind to drift onto scenarios that could happen like playing a Football League side or the draw being done inside our social club!

“That’s really exciting, and we should enjoy moments like this because of what they can do for us as a team as well as for the club financially.”

Three wins in this season’s edition will secure a total of £30,000 in prize money.

Meanwhile a victory at the next stage is worth £25,000.

Macauley watched his side make a dream start against their National League North hosts when James Foley drilled low past goalkeeper Dave Carnell on 11 minutes.

However Jack Banister restored parity for the Rebels when he cut inside from the left and fired into the far corner shortly after the half-hour.

A major talking point followed when FC United forward Kurt Willoughby was sent off for striking Billy Smart in the face as the duo fell to the floor following a foul by the Witton midfielder.

Witton then laboured initially after the interval before Hopley reacted instinctively to jab River Humphreys’ knock-down over the line from Foley’s corner.

Macauley said: “Rob is clever, and he anticipates where the ball is going before it arrives.

“It was a brilliant header by River, and I think it was a deserved reward.

“I had felt confident before the game and had faith that we were capable of winning the game.

“I expected us to be a threat at set-pieces and I think we looked dangerous from them – both our goals came that way.”