Walsall edge out Darlington to book their place in FA Cup second round

Posted Thursday, November 21, 2019 by PA

Walsall striker Caolan Lavery struck to help clinch a 1-0 FA Cup first-round replay victory over plucky Darlington at Blackwell Meadows.

Lavery, who scored Walsall’s equaliser in the first encounter, headed in midway through the second half to edge the nervy tie.

League Two side the Saddlers now go on to host League One Oxford after being given a searching examination by the National League North outfit.

These sides produced a frantic finale at Bescot Stadium 11 days ago when Darlington salvaged a 2-2 draw with Joe Wheatley’s leveller in the seventh minute of stoppage time.

But in front of a sell-out crowd of just over 3,000, Darlington threatened in the ninth minute with midfielder Will Hatfield’s fierce drive forcing Walsall keeper Liam Roberts into a save.

Rory Holden then sliced his shot wide and Josh Gordon flashed an effort across the face of goal as the visitors found some menace.

But Darlington were the better side in the first half and left-back Michael Liddle gave Roberts another anxious moment with a tricky low strike.

Lavery lifted a chance over the crossbar for Walsall 12 minutes into the second half and Hatfield brought a further save from Roberts at the other end.

But Darlington’s hopes were dashed by Lavery’s header after 68 minutes from Holden’s teasing cross.