SAINTS will face Walsall after they scraped past non-league Alfreton Town 1-0 to nervously book an FA Cup third round clash.

The Saddlers will visit St Mary's on Saturday, January 6, with kick-off between the Championship and League Two outfit set for 3PM. 

Douglas James-Taylor’s menacing run down the left opened up the non-league side’s defence, skipper Donervon Daniels’ miscued shot fell kindly and Matt kept his cool to score from close range – the injury-hit striker’s first goal of the season on only his fourth start.

In a game of 10 bookings, including one for Alfreton boss Billy Heath, the visitors were starting to threaten a lot more as half-time approached. And they stepped it up after the break.

Walsall had chances to seal it a bit more comfortably as James-Taylor hit a post with a wide angled chip, while Liam Gordon went close with a left-foot shot.

But the closest either side came was a blocked shot from visiting skipper Shaun Brisley which span up over the bar – to ensure that it is the Saddlers who go to St Mary’s.

“I enjoyed it from lots and lots of perspectives,” said Walsall boss Sadler. “But especially from a team perspective.

“Those are the sort of games you really like to win when you know every player has had to contribute to get you a result.

“The work that they have had to put in to help us win the game against a very tough Alfreton team gives you a good feeling.

“And I was delighted that it was Jamille Matt who got the goal as it topped off a very good performance from him and will do him the world of good.”

National League Eastleigh will visit Newport County, after the Welsh side beat Barnet on Tuesday evening.