Runcorn FC Halton 0, Bradford Park Avenue 1 - A superb result at the Halton Stadium in the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup was followed by the news that Avenue had been handed a home tie against Nationwide League Division Two side Bristol City in the first round.

That made Andy Hayward's strike in the 1-0 victory, and every tackle won or save made, absolutely priceless. Bradford's second club are on course for a big pay day and publicity to match that of their demise from the Football League over 30 years ago.

"It was a great win, we were up against it at times but we knew it would be tough," said Bradford boss Trevor Storton.

"It was a good, entertaining game and both sides went for it, as you would expect. I think Runcorn deserve full credit because they played hard but fair, they gave us a match and will be disappointed to have got nothing from it."

To the victors the spoils and it will be Avenue who bank the £10,000 prize money from Saturday's clash, no matter how close it was, and bask in the limelight. The added media interest for the forthcoming clash with the Robins and

possible financial spin-offs are another bonus.

"We had to defend but it was a deserved victory," added Storton. "Andy scored with a fantastic volley, we hit the bar and had what I thought was a stonewall penalty claim turned down.

"Runcorn came at us but we were very strong at the back. The lads performed to their abilities and that has taken us through, we worked hard and showed determination and concentration.

"Our keeper has dealt with everything they could throw at us and made a few top-class saves. That is what he is there for but I have to say it is probably the best game Matt Boswell has had for us since he signed in the close-season."

Runcorn began well and Boswell claimed early crosses as he dominated his area and Graham Mitchell got a telling block to force one effort wide of the target midway through the first half. Avenue were probing though, skipper Wayne Benn hit a drive from outside the area that climbed over the bar and Jason Maxwell also sent in an effort that was just too high.

The all-important strike, the game's only goal, came in the 28th minute from a direct route. Boswell launched the ball forward, Maxwell neatly chest-trapped it into Hayward's path and he lashed it home from the edge of the area.

Boswell won the battle of wills with Runcorn striker Kevin Leadbetter, Hayward saw a shot crash back of the bar early in the second half and Craig Smith also had a good chance as Avenue recorded an historic win.