RUGBY Borough got themselves off to a flyer in the FA Vase, after a Tom Rawlings brace helped edge British Airways in the first qualifying round at Kilsby Lane.
Ady Fuller’s men had the dream start to the game when Rawlings opened the scoring just four minutes in.
Persistent pressing from Ollie Chater led to possession being surrendered in the final third, with Rawlings applying the finishing touch.
The goal gave Borough lift off with further chances falling their way, with Chater volleying narrowly wide, whilst Sam Beasley’s goal-bound free kick was well saved.
Rugby’s first half did not go without the odd moment of turbulence though, as Bobbie Biddle was forced into a couple of saves to ensure Borough went in a goal up at the break.
Shaun Barber almost doubled the lead after the interval when meeting Aiden Print’s drilled cross, but a deflection sent the effort wide.
Moments later, British Airways were level when a deflected shot flew in past Biddle, a goal almost wiped out instantly by Barber’s strike that crashed against the woodwork.
With seven minutes remaining, Borough found the winner when Rawlings latched onto Barber’s pass and fired the ball beyond the keeper’s reach.
Rugby return to Leicestershire Senior League Premier Division action on Saturday (3pm), hosting Thurnby Rangers.
