FA Cup: Wilkin pleased with application ahead of replay

Brackley Town manager Kevin Wilkin was delighted with his side's display ahead of FA Cup replay

Brackley Town head to Newport County for tonight’s (Tuesday) Emirates FA Cup replay on the back of Saturday’s excellent performance at AFC Fylde.

Saints picked up a point in Saturday’s 2-2 draw at the Vanarama National League North high-fliers in difficult conditions.

Boss Kevin Wilkin was concerned Tuesday’s Emirates FA Cup replay could have been on his players’ minds ahead of the game but he said: “A concern before the game was obviously not to let Tuesday’s replay cloud our effort levels and decision-making.

“It was a real collective effort, the one disappointment is not to retain that lead for longer.”

Wilkin had no complaints about the playing surface and praised his team for their all-round performance at the high-fliers.

He said: “The pitch was difficult in places with standing water but it was the same for both sides. It was a strong all round performance and it is a very good away point against a side that will be one of the challengers at the top come the end of the season.

“We showed good character. There was a togetherness and good work rate and the draw is no less than we deserved.”

Looking ahead to tonight’s tie, Wilkin added: “If we play as we can and if we can raise our level and they have an off-day and if we get the decisions going our way then we can do it.”