GOALKEEPER Josh Dempsey said he is happy to repay the faith shown in by manager Rob Cousins after producing another eye-catching FA Cup performance at Cheltenham.

Dempsey, who was outstanding in both ties against Blue Square Premier leaders Newport to help Yate reach the first round of the competition after winning the replay, made several fine saves once again at the Abbey Business Stadium, although it wasn’t enough to pull off another shock.

The postman joined Yate during the 2009-10 season, but left for Southern League Premier Division side Chippenham Town less than two weeks before this campaign.

After struggling to settle there he was welcomed back with open arms at Yate, returning to the side for their 2-1 win at Winchester City in first round qualifying, and has been in fine form ever since.

Dempsey said: “I didn’t have a great start to the season at Chippenham, so I came back to try and get some form and touch wood I’ve had a little bit so far.

“They gave me another chance so I’m trying to repay them now.”

Billy Jones’ excellent set piece deliveries for Cheltenham provided Dempsey with a stern test, but he dealt with them well until the 65th minute when Kaid Mohamed got on the end of a corner to score the crucial second goal.

“I did all right, but felt I could’ve done a little bit better for the second goal,” said Dempsey.

“We hit the post, hit the bar had them a bit worried, but they were good on the counter-attack and some of the balls they were putting in were a joke.”

Cousins was pleased with Dempsey’s performance but also felt he could’ve commanded his box better for Mohamed’s header. “He made some great saves, but then he’s disappointed for the second goal when he made a loud shout but never got there and that killed us really,” said Cousins.