Basford through thanks to Marshall

BASFORD United recorded their first win of the season with a 1-0 win over Stourbridge at Greenwich Avenue and progressed to the second qualifying round of the FA Cup, when they will travel to face Mickleover.

Marcus Marshall’s goal 12 minutes from time was the difference as Steve Chettle recorded his first FA Cup win in his third attempt as United boss.

Prior to kick-off, United announced the signing of Terry Hawkridge from Boston United for an undisclosed fee and the midfielder starred throughout.

Also calling Greenwich Avenue his new home was Reco Fyfe, most recently of Gainsborough, who started on the bench. Matt Thornhill and Stef Galinski both missed out through injury.

Three consecutive draws preceded their first cup encounter of the season and Brad Gascoigne nearly provided the perfect start but his fine header crashed off the crossbar from Ryan Wilson’s corner.

Rev James then floated a chance over Charlie Price’s crossbar from a tight angle before good build-up play down the left between Hawkridge and Alex Howes lead to Wilson’s fierce hit being parried over by the keeper.

The visitors from the Southern Premier League failed to pose any real threat and Lathaniel Rowe-turner’s tame shot from range with 25 minutes played was all they could muster, despite a decent spell of possession late in the half.

Howes missed a chance to put Basford ahead, while Owen Betts’ shot struck the woodwork.

Substitute Marshall made the breakthrough for Basford, jinking past two defenders before slotting home.

“I thought we were very good and worthy winners,” Chettle said. “We were a bit frustrated not going into half-time with the lead but, overall, we spoke to the players after the game, and we would’ve taken a 1-0 before and I’m happy with that.

“It’s my first FA Cup win with Basford at the third attempt and I’m very, very pleased.”