Defender pleased with performance but disappointed with late FA Cup draw
Recalled defender Mark Ellis says Shrewsbury Town's excellent home form could be key in helping earn a place in the 2nd round of the FA Cup.
Town were undone by a late deflected equaliser in Saturday's 2-2 draw at Walsall meaning a replay at Greenhous Meadow where Shrewsbury have won 9 out of 11 home games in league and cup this season.
Shrewsbury led twice against the Saddlers with Eliis giving them an early lead, his first for the club. Former Town striker Tom Bradshaw then equalised in the second half before James Collins flicked in Andy Mangan's free kick to put Micky Mellon's side back in front. But it was Bradshaw who had the final say with a second Walsall goal in the 90th minute.
"We're disappointed," admitted Ellis. "We held out until the end and they've hit a shot that was going miles wide and it's hit the lad on the floor and gone in. It's not nice when former players score goals against you but he worked hard so credit to him. It's disappointing on our part to concede two goals."
Town were beaten 3-0 by Walsall at the same stage of the competition last season but despite being a league below their opponents, Shrewsbury's new look squad put in a much improved display.
"The overall performance level was good," said Ellis. "We held our own at times against a League One team and we look forward to getting back to our place and trying to get a win. Our home record is very good and we feel confident we can beat anyone."
Ellis was recalled to the team with fellow defenders Jermaine Grandison and Jack Grimmer unavailable. It took just five minutes for the former Torquay and Crewe stopper to make his mark with a neat finish which put Shrewsbury in front.
"I fully enjoyed it, you could see that with the celebration,' he smiled. "I keep up my record of scoring in every season which is good. It bounced up nicely for me, I hit it and it's gone in to the bottom corner.
"Hopefully I've done enough to keep my place in the team next week. I could have done better on the ball at times, but haven't played for a few weeks. I felt a bit rusty but overall I was happy. We've got good competition for places, especially at the back."
Ellis also payed tribute to more than 1200 Shrewsbury away fans who made the journey to Walsall.
"It was a brilliant atmosphere," he said. "They sang their hearts out for us and credit to them. Wherever we go, we always get great support."