TIPTREE United manager Steve Wheeler praised the “fight” of his players after they battled their way into the third round of the FA Vase.

The Jam-makers overturned a 3-1 deficit with 15 minutes to go to beat Hereward Teamwear United Counties League premier division side Cogenhoe United 4-3 in extra-time at their Park Drive ground in Maldon.

It was a stunning fightback from Wheeler’s young team, which has an average age of just 21, and the manager said he is delighted with the way that his new signings have helped turn the squad into a winning force.

They will be hoping to record a third straight win when they return to Essex Senior League duties on Saturday by hosting Witham Town for a local derby at Park Drive (kick-off 3pm).

Wheeler said: “It was a great result as they (Cogenhoe) were a good side, they really were.

“We were 3-1 down with 15 minutes to go and came back to win it in extra-time so it would have been a great game to watch for any neutrals, but we deserved to win it.

“It was the best performance since I have been here.”

Tiptree have rebuilt their squad since the new manager and his assistant Gavin Axcell came in last month and Wheeler was pleased with the way they rose to the challenge against a side which has been together for four years and reached the last eight of the Vase last season.

The hosts did take the lead in the game through Bradley Nobbs, but things looked bleak as Cogenhoe hit three to lead 3-1 going into the closing stages, however, late strikes by Luke Hall and Lee Smith sent it into extra-time, when Eddie Hart’s lone goal won the tie.

“We had some winners out there and we had belief,” added Wheeler, who was expecting to bring in two new signings this week.

“That performance and result shows me that these players are up for a fight.

“We have a base to build on.

“It was always going to take some time, but it has come together sooner than I thought.”

Former England, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Colchester United striker Teddy Sheringham may be on the teamsheet for the Jam-makers’ third round encounter at Park Drive on December 5.

The 43-year-old is signed to play this season for Beckenham, who Tiptree have been drawn to face in the next round.