Former Oxford United defender Paul Powell was the hero as his brace helped Didcot to victory at Thatcham in their first appearance in the FA Trophy.

Didcot struggled before the break, with their only effort of note a weak shot from Stuart Beavon.

In the second half, Beavon was denied the opener by Thatcham's goalkeeper, Paul Strudley, after Powell had put him through.

Didcot had a lucky escape, Ian Davies missing two sitters for the home side in the space of four minutes.

After Beavon headed wide, Davies and Sean Cook went close for Thatcham.

Only a brilliant last-ditch tackle from Ricky Allaway stopped Beavon from opening Didcot's account.

Strudley saved from Jack King before Didcot took the lead when Powell volleyed home.

Midway through the second half, Didcot doubled their advantage when Beavon slotted past Strudley.

The keeper denied Beavon, before Cook shot straight at Chris Webb in the Didcot goal.

With 13 minutes left, Powell completed his brace after a clever reverse pass from Beavon.

A minute later, only a super save from Strudley prevented Powell from getting his hat-trick, while Beavon went close to a second.

Didcot Tn: Webb, Goodall, Jack, Campbell, Bedwell (Learoyd 81), Parrott, Heapy, King, Brooks (Hannigan 58), Beavon, Powell (Weatherstone 86).