Matthew Ball’s late strike earned St Albans City a 1-0 win against Boreham Wood as they advanced in the Herts Senior Cup.

Ball got on the end of Louie Theophanous’ pass to break Wood’s stubborn resistance in the 83rd minute and ensure City got the better of their National League opponents.

The victory means City can prepare for a quarter final tie, which will be played on Sunday, January 15.

A tight first half saw both teams struggle to impose themselves on proceedings before the introduction of Theophanous from the bench.

The substitute provided the cross after a great team move from the visitors to leave Ball with a simple task to finish from close range.

City will now turn their attention back to National League South commitments where they take on Margate away from home on Saturday.