AFC TOTTON overcame a stern test against Merthyr Town as they made it into the hat for the FA Trophy draw on Monday, writes Doug Webber.
A second-minute Scott Rendell penalty was all that separated the sides, with the Stags progressing to the first round.
Totton came out fighting from the off before home goalkeeper Jaimie Cogman committed a clumsy foul to bring down the lively Ethan Taylor.
Rendell converted coolly from twelve yards, sending Cogman the wrong way to open scores and send the Stags on their way.
Totton had to endure wave-after-wave of Martyr pressure, with Lewis Noice making a host of crucial saves, but they weathered it expertly to secure a berth in the next round.
Jimmy Ball’s side receive £2,450 for their win, reaching the first round proper for the second consecutive season.
Last campaign, they set a club record by reaching the third round for the first time in their history.
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