JJ HOOPER has vowed to make up for lost time after marking his first start in two months with a goal.

The summer signing picked up a groin injury in the 4-2 defeat at Hartlepool on August 26 and suffered a set-back after making two substitute appearances the following month.

But having made his latest comeback with another run-out off the bench in Saturday's 1-1 FA Cup fourth qualifying round draw at Chesterfield, Hooper started Tuesday's replay.

And Hooper marked his return with the only goal, converting James Jennings' cross as Wrexham won 1-0 to set-up a first round home tie with League One side Rochdale.

It was Hooper's third goal of the season and the frontman is hungry for more.

"It was nice to get a goal," said Hooper. "It was a great ball from Jenno and I just had the easy part.

"It has been a frustrating period for me with the injury but I am better now, it was good to start and hopefully I can kick on.

"Everything is good, the physio has helped me massively and I just need to get on a run.

"I have got to make up for lost time now. I have missed a small period but I just need to keep working with the physio to get as fit as I can.

"Injuries happen and I just want to help the team as much as I can, and get us on the right side of the table."

It was the third meeting between the sides in eight days - Chesterfield won 1-0 in the league before the cup clashes - and Hooper was pleased to finally get one over the Spireites.

"We have played Chesterfield a few times now and have probably got them again in the league soon but it was just nice to get a win against them," said Hooper.

Wrexham were on top in the first half and deserved their 30th minute lead but Chesterfield came more into the game after the break and put the Reds under increased pressure with chances going begging.

And although Dean Keates' side also had opportunities to put the game to bed, one goal proved to be enough and Hooper stressed the importance of winning given the Reds' recent form.

"We needed a result and I think the boys played well in spells," said Hooper.

"It was a bit scrappy in the second half but we just needed to get the win."

Wrexham, with only one win in 13 league outings and currently in the relegation zone, now have back to back away games at Dagenham on Saturday and Torquay next Tuesday.

Hooper hopes Wrexham can build on the cup success and start climbing the table.

"We have just got to take this form into the weekend, go to Dagenham and try to get a result," added Hooper.

"Then go to Torquay and get a result there as well.

"Results like on Tuesday can change things and give us a bit of a boost in the league."

The Buckley and District Reds are holding a Race Night fundraiser on Saturday at Buckley Cricket Club, starting at 7.30pm.

A buffet is provided and everyone is welcome to attend with all proceeds going to Wrexham Football Club.