Hendon were given a tough test by AFC Rushden & Diamonds this afternoon, but eventually came through with a 1-0 win in the FA Cup.

The goal came in the 66th minute when Leon Smith beat three or four defenders and the keeper to fire the ball into the net via a deflection off a Rushden player. Minutes later Smith hit the woodwork as the Greens searched for a second goal.

Debutant keeper Ben McNamara was forced into two excellent saves to keep the visitors out, and there was relief and delight all round when the final whistle went.

The next round will be on 27th September, which means that our home game against Billericay Town has been postponed.