Hessey happy despite red card ‘madness’
MARINE were in good spirits after they defeated Marske United in the first qualifying round of the FA Cup on Saturday.
The visitors won 2-0 in the clash, making it three games unbeaten for Sean Hessey’s side following a victory and a draw in the league.
The Mariners have lost just one competitive match so far this season and Hessey was pleased with his side’s performance once again, despite a slow start against Marske.
“It was always going to be tricky to go there as we were expected to win against the team in the lower division but it was good to get the win,” said Hessey.
“It was a wet day and we started off really nervy.
“They bombarded us for the first few minutes and had a few chances but we got back in the game.
“We never really looked like losing and although it wasn’t easy, we’re pleased to get through to the next round.”
Despite a pleasing performance, there were two red cards in the second half, with both teams going down to 10 men within the space of three minutes.
The Mariners boss said he was “disappointed” with the lack of discipline from his side as Obi Anorou joined Billy Smart as the club’s second sending-off this season.
“That’s the second sending-off we’ve had in about a week and I wasn’t pleased with that level of discipline.
“On Saturday, it was a moment of madness and it just wasn’t acceptable. It was disappointing.
“It could’ve cost us the game but luckily enough for us it didn’t. Last time it did though so we should’ve learnt from our mistakes.
“We had a meeting about it and the lad knows he made a mistake. These things aren’t acceptable and it can’t happen again. It’s got to stop.”
Marine’s next fixture is at home to Coalville Town as they return to league action this weekend and Hessey wants his side to pick up another three points.
“It’s back to league action for us and we need a win. We’ve got two tough games coming up so it’s an important week.
“I want us to get three points at home and build on the win from the weekend. We’ll have a few missing though.
“Anorou will obviously be missing due to suspension and we need to assess a few others who have picked up knocks so I’m not sure if they’ll be back for the weekend.
“Billy Smart will be returning from his suspension, though, and we had Alan Burton back on the weekend for his first game so that was a bonus.”
Marine have been drawn away to Nantwich Town in the second qualifying round of the FA Cup which will be played on Saturday, September 17.