‘We know we have to improve but I can’t knock the lads for the spirit that they’re showing’
SHELDAN KEAY
ACCRINGTON Stanley moved into the second round of the EFL Cup after beating League One Bradford City in a dramatic penalty shootout at the Wham Stadium.
Jordan Clark got the winning penalty for the Reds to earn his side an 11-10 shootout victory after the match had finished goalless, and manager John Coleman praised his side for the bravery they displayed.
“We know we have to improve but I can’t knock the lads for the spirit that they’re showing,” he told the club’s official website.
“They were throwing their bodies in the way of shots in extra-time and the one thing you can’t buy that was shown was courage, determination and will to win.
“Sometimes that will take you a lot further. If you can add skill to that then you have a recipe for a successful team.”
Accrington had goalkeeper Elliot Parish sent off during the second half of the match, but Coleman was still proud of his performance.
“Elliot had a fantastic game and was unfortunate to be sent off,” he said.
“He made a genuine attempt towards the ball and had two men goal side of him so I thought it was harsh, but he was fantastic.”
Stanley were set to find out their next round opponents as the Observer went to print on Wednesday, and Coleman has a lot of pride in the competition.
“I value the EFL Cup as important as the FA Cup as it gives you a chance to pit your wits against a team from a higher division,” he said. went close on two occasions.
First he struck a shot straight at Bradford goalkeeper Colin Doyle before then hitting an effort off target.
Clark almost put the home side in front when he tried his luck on the hour mark, but his attempt narrowly missed.
Parish still had to be alert in the Accrington goal, and he made another superb save when he kept out a goal-bound Hanson header.
His evening came to an early end though when he was shown a controversial red card after 74 minutes.
The Accrington goalkeeper pushed away an effort from Law before then trying to chase the loose ball, and in the process brought down Morais.
Despite having two Stanley defenders goal side of him, the referee decided to send off Parish.
Coleman then brought on substitute goalkeeper