Croydon Athletic progressed to the quarter finals of The Championship Manager League Cup after Jeremy Williams' goal gave them a 1-0 win over Walton & Hersham at Stompound Lane.

Manager Tim O’Shea made four changes from the starting line-up that comprehensively beat Merstham the previous Saturday with new signing, goalkeeper Andy Little, making his debut in goal.

The first 20 minutes passed without any action of note but then The Rams sprang into life with a passing move ending with Gareth Williams crossing to Gary Noel whose shot was well saved by the Hersham goalkeeper.

This was quickly followed by goal attempts by Gareth Williams and Danny Waldren but no breakthrough.

At the other end, former AFC Wimbledon keeper Little looked calm and assured without being really tested.

Noel and Godfrey both had efforts that went just wide before Jeremy Williams was booked for an innocuous looking challenge in the Walton box.

The second half started quietly like the first but slowly Croydon got back into their stride.

Finally, in the 59th minute, the Rams got the breakthrough when Rory Hill was needlessly fouled by Walton’s full back when appearing to have nowhere to go. Gareth Williams delivered the free kick into the area with pace and an unmarked Jeremy Williams placed a firm header into the net.

Walton tried to get back into the game but Jeremy Williams and the highly impressive Joe Howe, in an unfamiliar centre back role, were unmovable complimented by the unflappable Little.

Despite late pressure by Walton the Rams rearguard stood firm and Croydon continued to look dangerous on the break.

At the final whistle the visiting supporters gave the team a standing ovation as they continue their quest for four trophies this season.

They will face Ryman League Division One North leader Lowestoft Town in the quarter-finals on March 24.

Croydon Athletic: Andy Little, Joe Howe, Chris Bourne, Danny Waldren, Bentley Graham, Jeremy Williams, Leslie Thompson (Tom Bolarinwa 54), Chris Piper, Gareth Williams, (Ben Godfrey, 65) Gary Noel, Rory Hill. Subs not used: Goma Lambu, Neil Smith