It takes a lot to get past the experienced central defensive partnership of David Head and Mark Goldfinch, just ask Canvey Island.

The defensive duo were simply unbeatable on Saturday, rekindling a partnership which lasted several years at Leiston.

Head and Goldfinch never missed a tackle, clearance, header, or block between them on Saturday, and backed-up by impressive young goalkeeper Jack Spurling as well as full-backs Nathan Speed and Connor Corrick, helped Wanderers to a famous FA Cup giant killing over the Gulls.

“We’ve got quite a good wavelength between us haven’t we?” laughed Head, turning to Goldfinch.

“We don’t have to do much running as we know where we are both going to be at the right time,” replied Goldfinch.

“It’s nice to get a scalp from two leagues above,” continued Head.

“What was most impressive was how organised we were, all the way throughout the team.

“They couldn’t break us down and everybody did their jobs perfectly.”

Goldfinch agreed, adding: “I think we had the clearer chances. It would have been nice for another one to go in (as the pair turn and share another joke).”

An extended run in the FA Cup is not unfamiliar to this formidable pairing.

Back in 2008, they were at the centre of Leiston’s defence, with the Suffolk side reaching the First Round Proper, and then competing in the Eastern Counties Premier Division.

Wanderers are still three games away from that stage, but the scene is set for another run for Head and Goldfinch, perhaps.

“Once you beat a team like Canvey, you can step it up against anybody,” said Head.

“Hopefully we can gain some momentum and go on another run like that!”

Goalkeeper Spurling, amid an exchange of friendly pleasantries with frustrated Canvey players and fans, added: “What a feeling.

“With every game, I’m learning more and more and becoming more confident.

Spurling’s last-gasp save, among a string of others, was top drawer.

“I just caught a glimpse of it!” he said.

“I just threw my arm out and that was that. I don’t know what to say!”