WARRINGTON Rylands put themselves in the hat for the second qualifying round of the FA Cup today and continued their good form.

They were victorious against lower-ranked Stockton Town at Gorsey Lane on Saturday afternoon, with James Baillie netting the decisive goal seven minutes into the second half.

It was a difficult afternoon for Blues with injuries – they could only name four substitutes for the game and Edy Maieco, Matt Regan and Ben Hough all had to be replaced before Baillie struck the winner.

However, manager Michael Clegg believes their progress was merited as they prepare themselves for Monday’s draw.

“We deserved it really on chances created,” he said.

“We rode our luck near the end and they had a couple of decent chances to snatch a replay, but we’re through and that’s the main thing.

“We were a bit patched-up today and made three subs in 40-odd minutes, so we’re just happy to get the win and move on.

“On the whole, I thought we defended really well – I thought James Butler was outstanding – and we looked dangerous on the break.

“We could have been two or three up so we’re a bit frustrated to be in the position we were at the end, but it’s the cup.

“Taking out the first half against Radcliffe, we’ve been rock-solid defensively.”

Blues now have a free midweek to patch up their squad ahead of a return to Northern Premier League action at Whitby Town next weekend.

Warrington Rylands: Pilling, Baillie, Swaby-Neavin, Regan (Wilsom), Butler, Neild, Hardcastle, Hough (Kyfein), Sidibeh, Touray, Maieco (Smith). Sub not used: Hives