WESTON will be hoping for a money-spinning draw after battling their way to the FA Cup 1st round proper for the first time in morning than a decade.

The 10-man Seagulls fought hard for a 2-1 win away at Witham Town this afternoon (Saturday) to ensure their name goes into the hat for Monday’s draw.

And they did it the hard way, coming from a goal down and surviving a late sending-off to secure the win.

Weston travelled to their Ryman Premier League opponents on the back of four straight league defeats which had seen them drop into the relegation positions.

And Seagulls fans in the 600-plus crowd would have feared the worst when Witham centre forward Kurt Smith powered them ahead after just eight minutes.

Despite the early setback, the visitors recovered to dominate much of the first half, and would have been quickly back on terms were it not for a fine performance from home goalkeeper Martin Guest.

The Seagulls were not to be denied, though, and player coach Clayton Fortune levelled eight minutes from the break.

An own goal from the home side looked to put Weston on the road towards a comfortable victory shortly after half-time.

However, they were forced to endure a nervous last 15 minutes after losing Jacob Cane to a red card for a deliberate handball on the goal-line.

Witham were unable to take advantage from the penalty spot, and some resolute defending from the 10 men ensured Weston completed their passage into the first round proper.

The draw will take place on Monday at 7pm, and could see Weston pitted against former winners Coventry City or Sheffield United, or even unbeaten Bristol City, who currently top League One.