On in Trophy

Ball - still a youngster in the County camp at the age of 20 years old - has come under-fire from some sections of the Edgeley Park fanbase in recent weeks, and dropped out of the starting line-up in Saturday’s win, but the former Stalybridge man continued to plug away as the Avenue defence tired.

Stopforth again strode forward to find the attacking midfielder, but this time the angle quickly narrowed and the shot could only be dragged wide at the near post - but Marsden soon intervened to end any doubt.

The tireless Stopforth, soon to be departing Edgeley Park for the chance to play in Australia, stole the ball on halfway before racing at the heart of the Bradford defence and sliding to tee up Marsden, who took one steadying touch before drilling low past Worsnop on his weaker left foot.

Despite an attendance of just over 1,000 at a chilly Edgeley Park, the relief that Marsden quite visibly felt was shared all over the ground as his teammates rushed to celebrate with the Liverpudlian while chief Gannon applauded from the sidelines.

There was still time for Duxbury to embark on a stunning 70 yard run before firing despairingly against the post, but County had done enough to progress in the competition.

An incredible ninth home tie out of nine possible Cup draws this calendar year awaited County, who now know they will host either Marine FC or divisional rivals Darlington (with their replay being played on Tuesday night as the Express went to print) on Saturday 10th December.

But, more importantly for The Hatters, in a week in which boss Gannon signed a new two and a half year deal to remain at Edgeley Park, the FA Trophy victory brought some much-needed positivity back after a testing November.