A LATE Mark Shepherd strike took Malvern Town through in this FA Cup replay to complete one of the biggest shocks of the round.

FA Cup First Round Qualifying - replay

MALVERN TOWN 1, WILLENHALL TOWN 0

The Langland Stadium outfit marched on after this dramatic tie against their higher-graded opponents, although Town goalkeeper Craig Humphries was the man-of-the-match.

In an absorbing game, Malvern threatened first and Mark Shepherd put a diving header just wide after a Duncan Preedy cross. Phil Preedy then got round the back of the visitors' defence and set up Mark Owen, but his effort was smothered by goalkeeper Clifton before Marc Burrows headed narrowly wide.

Willenhall had chances but the home defence of Chalmers, Clayton, Burrows and Roberts were outstanding while the Preedy brothers, Whittington and skipper Bullock worked tirelessly in midfield.

Humphries make good saves either side of the half-time break as a determined Willenhall pushed for an opening goal.

Malvern hit back and good work by Shepherd set up Bullock, who let fly from 25 yards but his shot grazed the crossbar.

Town then grabbed the only goal of the game when Phil Preedy picked the ball up out wide and cut in to cross to Shepherd, who planted his shot firmly home from ten yards.

Manager Hunt introduced subs Tomkins and Halion to shore-up the midfield and Owen brought another good save from Clifton.

Malvern are now at home to Conference South leaders Histon FC, who last season knocked out Shrewsbury Town, next Saturday (September 24).