TIVIDALE progressed to the first qualifying round of the FA Cup with a hard-fought victory over Walsall Wood.

Substitute Dan Smith netted 10 minutes from time to hand his side a clash with Evo-Stik Southern League East side AFC Rushden & Diamonds in the next round.

The cup joy also maintains Tivi's unbeaten start to the new season.

Manager Dave King said: "I think we deserved the win but we did have to ride our luck at times.

"They had a lot more possession than we did but without really testing us too much.

"We were playing against the slope in the first half so always fancied us if we could still be within touching distance at half time.

"Going in 0-0 was a massive plus for us and we responded well to go and win it after that.

"To beat two teams from higher leagues has been remarkable and we can now look forward to another big game.

"The team has gelled really quickly this year and that has shown in the league as well.

"We now need to make sure our focus is firmly on the league and put the cup on the backburner until the time is right."

Tividale are due to welcome Bewdley Town to the Grove tomorrow night before going to Herefrd Lads Club this Saturday.