STAFFORD RANGERS 2 (1)

A goal at either end of the game from Liam Murray booked Stafford Rangers a place in the FA Cup Second Round in front of a bumper crowd of 1,934 at York Road tonight.  In similar circumstances to Magpie Man of the Match in the first game David Clarke, Murray was not initially named on the teamsheet but came into the side as a late replacement for Craig McAughtrie.

After having their pride stung in the first game Stafford tore into United from the kick off and had them under the cosh immediately.  After ten minutes this pressure paid off when a Danny Edwards free kick on the right was met at the far post by Liam Murray who headed home.  Despite this setback Maidenhead's resolve held firm and they patiently playedt heir way back into the game with some good football typified by Mark Nisbet who ended a tricky with a long shot which went wide in the 24th minute.  One minute later Clarke brought Stafford keeper Danny Alcock into the action with a cross from the right wing which Alcock could only tip over the bar.  The resulting corner was swung over from the right by Ashley Smith.  As the players scrambled to meet the cross Wayne Daniel pushed over Dwane Lee and the referee blew for a penalty.  Craig O'Connor stepped up to the spot and in trademark fashion blasted the ball at the target, only for it to go inches too high and rebound off the crossbar.  Dominic Sterling was first to the loose ball but his header was well wide of the target.  As the half drew to a close Stafford returned to the ascendancy and Chico Ramos had to be at his best to block a Neil Grayson after some good work from Guy Madjo.

The second half saw the Magpies camped in Stafford's half with the Conference team happy to sit back and soak up the pressure whilst presenting the ever dangerous option of a counter attack.  The coup de grace arrived with 12 minutes remaining.  Stafford were awarded a disputable corner on the left wing and for the fourth time in the tie, a set piece led to a goal.  Once again the playmaker was Danny Edwards who crossed for Liam Murray to again head in.  The game ended on a low note when Stafford striker Neil Grayson collided with Maidenhead goalkeeper Chico Ramos and had to be stretchered off after being knocked out with five minutes remaining.  Fortunately the veteran striker was sitting up by the final whistle.

Magpies: Ramos, Nisbet (63 Johnson), Parsons, Lee, Sterling, Clarke Da, Witt, Osman (74 Fotheringham), O'Connor (80 Allen), Newman, Smith.  Unused subs: Driver, Howard.

Booking: Osman 56     Magpie of the Match: David Clarke     Gate: 1,934

Rangers: Alcock, Talbott, Daniel, Lovatt (69 Oldfield), Street, Grayson (85 Gibson), Madjo, Edwards, Sutton, Murphy.  Unused subs: Quadey, Olaoye, Dacres.

Goals: Murray 10, 78