Sam Ricketts reflects on Town's first round Emirates FA Cup win over Cambridge United.
Shrewsbury Town’s Emirates FA Cup journey got off to the perfect start with Sam Ricketts’ men securing a win over Cambridge United.
Long-distance goals from Charlie Daniels and Brad Walker secured Town a deserved win as Salop booked a spot in the second round of the competition.
Town’s Manager was pleased with the Salop victory and hopes his team can take their form into the coming games.
On the result:
“We’ve only had a couple of days to work on a new shape. Elements of the performance were very, very good. They had possession around the half-way line but we hurt them when we had the ball.
“We had to be patient but we are delighted to be into the next round. The two goals were excellent and the result is nothing less than the players deserve.
“Charlie got in a good position to pick up a loose ball and drilled it in. The second goal is an excellent strike. We were also denied a penalty in the first half due to a clear handball. The attitude of the players has been exemplary. We took a positive step and this is the start of another FA Cup run.”
On FA Cup momentum:
“We stepped up against a team who are doing very well in their league and full of confidence. To come away from home and beat a side who are doing very well is pleasing.
“We showed an awful lot of character and quality. Clean sheets are vital and it’s what we build from. The defenders are proud of the clean sheet and now we have to get ready to go again.
“We’ve had two excellent cup runs. My first year we had Stoke and Wolves and last year we had Bristol City and Liverpool. It starts with these games, like Bradford and Mansfield. We are in the second round and we will wait to see where we end up.”
On players returning:
“We pressed fast-forward on a couple of the lads because we have been lacking options. We still have injuries but it was great to have Eddo back. You could see the impact he had on the game. His experience and know-how helped us. We are delighted to have him back in we also had Shaun Whalley back on the bench and he was there if I really needed him.
“Matty Millar has worked extremely hard so it was great to have him back involved.”
