THE FA Cup proved to be the perfect tonic for Witton Albion on Saturday as they picked up their first victory of the campaign.

Despite being winless in six Northern Premier League Premier Division matches, Carl Macauley's men returned from Scarborough Athletic with an impressive result to secure their place in the second qualifying round.

Jawad Jebrin and James Hooper were on target either side of half time for Albion.

Macauley's side took the lead eight minutes before the break in slightly unusual circumstances.

Jebrin gamely pressed the Scarborough defence and continued his work as the ball was sent back to home goalkeeper Nathan Harker.

His industry was rewarded as he charged down Harker's attempted clearance and won the race to the loose ball to tap home his first goal in a Witton shirt.

Six minutes after the interval, Witton were able to double their lead as Harker once again could consider himself at fault.

He lost out in an aerial dual with Rob Hopley as a free kick was pumped into the box, and Hooper showed impressive composure to finish through a crowd of defenders on the half-volley.

Indeed, Jebrin could and perhaps should have doubled his tally immediately after Hooper's goal as a cross from the right found him with just Harker to beat, but he somehow could only hit the post.

Witton stopper Greg Hall then had his woodwork rattled by a long-range Ryan Watson effort as the hosts looked for a way back into the game, with Kieran Weledji also heading just wide after the visitors did not properly clear a corner.

However, Macauley's side closed out the victory and will now enjoy a free midweek as Atherton Collieries, who were due to visit Wincham Park on Tuesday evening, are in FA Cup replay action.