TWO first half goals gave Stockton Town the advantage in the battle for a place at Wembley as they beat Marske United in the first leg of their FA Vase semi-final.

Jamie Owens headed in Max Craggs' free kick after 12 minutes, and Fred Woodhouse scored Stockton's second just before the break.

Marske were dominant in possession, but created very few clear cut opportunities, with Liam O'Sullivan missing their best chance from eight-yards out midway through the second half.

Both teams had to compete in cold and blustery conditions throughout, and a severe snow storm at the end of the first-half led to some speculation as to whether the game would continue.

The weather relented slightly in the second half, and Stockton, playing as the visitors despite the match being played at their Bishopton Road West ground, defended solidly to take a solid lead into the second leg next week.

The reality of competing for the chance to play in one of the world's most famous stadiums was evident early on, with both sides slow to shed their nerves.

But when Craggs lifted in a free kick after a foul on Kevin Hayes, Owens timed his jump to perfection to convert the first real chance of the game.

Marske tried to take advantage of a Stockton side that was sitting deep throughout the half, and despite hitting the post from a throw in, they didn't do enough to test Michael Arthur.

Midfielder Chay Liddle found himself in a good position on the edge of the Stockton box, but couldn't connect cleanly, and it was further sloppy play at the back by Liam O'Sullivan that let Craggs square to Woodhouse for Stockton's second.

Ground staff had their work cut out during the interval to make the 4G pitch visible after heavy snow at the end of the half.

The football was as frustrating as the weather for Marske supporters. O'Sullivan couldn't get a clean strike on a volley from eight yards out, and despite multiple corners - including six in ten minutes - and balls into the box, the home side failed to pull a goal back.

Stockton occasionally threatened on the break, but remained resolute behind the ball, and took a somewhat surprising advantage into next week's second leg.