Defence does its job to send cup kings Winsford through FA Vase next stage

WINSFORD boss Lloyd Morrison said the result, and not its means, was all that mattered after Blues reached the third round for the first time.

Andy Hurst’s first half spot kick separated the sides after a close encounter.

“The performance doesn’t really count as long as you’re in the hat for the next round,” he said afterwards.

“There was a scary final few minutes when they threw everything at us, but I have to give huge credit to our back four who were outstanding.

“Morpeth watched us last week so knew what to expect, which made life difficult for us on muddy pitch that became a bit of a leveller.”

Morrison gambled, handing a first start to new recruit Charlie Anderson in defence following his switch from higher-ranked FC United of Manchester. It paid off.

The two teams traded chances before Hurst’s defining moment, Brian Matthews’ shot was blocked while at the other end Edward Dines’ effort flashed over.

Winsford goalkeeper Andy Jones was quick to react when Dines ran clear, then Steve Anderson’s goal-bound effort was diverted to safety by a defender.

Lee Duckworth’s free kick scraped a post, then Jones tipped over Chris Lunn’s drive as the Highwaymen showed adventure.

The hosts grew though, taking the lead from the penalty spot after Hurst had been flattened by Morpeth’s Michael Hall as he closed in on a loose ball.

Blues rode their luck when Lois Maynard and substitute James Blair both cleared efforts off the line, the latter spectacularly.

The former went close with a towering header from Andy Keogh’s set piece with time running out, but Hurst’s goal proved enough.

Winsford Jones (GK), McDonnell (Blair 61), Maynard, Anderson, Duckworth, Warburton (Doran 87), Keogh, Foy (Saeed 90), Matthews, Egan, Hurst. Subs not used Harrison (GK), Dickson. Attendance 128.