This was no FA Cup second qualifying round stroll for Hendon, even after Tooting's Youness Nabil was dismissed for a late challenge early in the second half.

Hendon's Ryman League Division One (North) opponents put up a spirited performance and matched the Greens all the way before going down 3-1.

But Hendon's sharper cutting edge showed through in the 25th minute when Paul Yates headed home a rebound from Gallagher's shot.

Hendon extended their lead almost immediately when Rob Haworth nodded in a pinpoint Jamie Burgess cross. Tooting put the home side under a great deal of pressure but when it seemed they might get back into the game they were reduced to ten men when former Hendon trialist Nabil scythed down Eugene Ofori.

A place in the third round was eventually secured when Haworth added a second with two minutes to go, smashing in a low centre from Ofori six yards out.

Hendon face a trip to Dr Martens League Premier Division side Hastings United in the third qualifying round on Saturday, October 12.

HENDON: Hook, Towler, Burgess, Duncan, Butler, Yates, Ofori (Haule 90), Forbes, Haworth, Bates (Cooper 45), Gallagher (Crace 57). Subs not used: Woolmer, Burton.

October 2, 2002 18:30