HINCKLEY United manager Dean Thomas was in a triumphant mood after his side booked their place in the First Round of the FA Cup for the first time in five years.

Two goals from Stuart Giddings (above) sealed the win over Blue Square Premier side Histon. 

Thomas said: "It was a wonderful occasion and an important day for the club. "It's vital from a financial point of view to get to the First Round Proper and we're where we want to be - in the hat!

"We certainly weren't at our best, but we rolled our sleeves up and worked hard for 90 minutes. Even though we had to change things around defensively a couple of times, the lads dug in well and kept their shape throughout the game against a good side and it speaks volumes for the lads who came in today and did their jobs. 

"Our first goal came at a good time just before the interval and we spoke at half-time about not conceding early and yet within 20 seconds they were level and we gave ourselves a mountain to climb as we weren't playing well at this stage.

"We kept going though, and the winner came from the best passage of play, great work from Gooding in midfield laying a pass to Giddings for his second of the game - I'm not sure what odds you'd have got on that before the game!

"After that second goal, defensively we were very strong and got bodies in the way and they only threatened once when Chris MacKenzie made a brilliant save."

And who does he want in the First Round? - "Notts County will do for me, thanks."

Don't forget - the First Round draw will be shown in the club tomorrow with the bar open from 12.30pm. The draw is at 1.30pm and the Manchester United v Liverpool game is on after. Spend Sunday with Hinckley United!

The First Round will take place over the weekend of November 7/8.