Mickey delighted with United's progress
Assistant manager Mickey Lewis was delighted to see his side go through to the area semi-final of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy semi-final with a 3-1 win at Plymouth last night. Ryan Clarke was the penalty-saving hero while James Constable scored for the third game in a row to earn his side a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes.
Mickey told www.oufc.co.uk:
"It was a good performance based on character. It was a very young side out there, I think Damian Batt was the senior player at 28, but they got themselves back into the game and when it went to penalties the takers held their nerves. Clarkey has a very good record against penalties and showed what a good keeper he is once again with two really good saves."
The U's will now face either Southend United, Yeovil Town or the winners of tonight's game between Northampton Town and Leyton Orient in the area semi-final, with the draw to be made on Soccer AM on Saturday morning.
"It's good to be involved still. We have really worked hard to stay in this competition and the FA Cup on Saturday and the hard work is really paying off. We said before the game that there is a big prize at the end of this competition and we are getting closer to it. It would be good to get a home draw but it's just nice to still be in it."
Penalty shoot-outs are never ideal, but Mickey was pleased to see his players remain calm and focussed:
"They were three good penalties from Sean Rigg, Adam Chapman and Liam Davis. James Constable and Damian Batt were down to take the next two but weren't needed."
United now look to build on a three-match unbeaten run as they welcome Aldershot Town to the Kassam Stadium on Saturday.
"We have done well and are just starting to get a bit of momentum going, but the vital thing is to make sure we show the same determination and effort on Saturday. The league is always the priority. There is usually a good atmosphere against Aldershot and we will prepare properly and be ready to go again come Saturday."
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