POMPEY MARCH ON AFTER THE COBBLERS SHOW STYLE
HOLDERS Portsmouth have still got a return trip to Wembley in their sights after coming from behind to beat Northampton on Tuesday night.
It looked as though a shock could be on the cards in the second round tie when Michael Harriman put the League Two visitors ahead on 12 minutes, finishing off a flowing Cobblers move.
However, Kenny Jackett’s men were back on terms through Leon Maloney’s header six minutes before the break and claimed victory in the second half thanks to Marcus Harness’ stunning volley just after the hour mark.
“Northampton started better than us,” admitted boss Jackett. “We looked a bit hesitant, rusty and nervous – the first 20 minutes belonged to them and they deservedly took the lead.
“It seemed like it was going to be a long night for us, but credit to our players for digging deep and sticking at it. We were dominant after the break and really should have put the game to bed by scoring a few more.”
In the last 16, Portsmouth face another League Two side, Walsall, though this time they will be away from home.
Not many would have fancied Walsall to get through when they trailed Chelsea U21s 2-0 after just ten minutes, Tariq Lamptey scoring both for the young Blues.
However, the Saddlers stormed back in the second half to delight the home faithful. Caolan Lavery pulled one back from the penalty spot on 52 minutes and it was all-square when Wes McDonald struck with 11 minutes left.
With a penalty shoot-out looming, Dan Scarr notched Walsall’s winner four minutes into stoppage time, netting with a half-volley on the turn.
League Two sides have performed well in the competition this season. In total, there are eight teams through to the third round, while six League One clubs and two academy sides make up the numbers.
EFL debutants Salford booked their place with an impressive 3-0 home win against
Wolves U21s. Luke Armstrong struck either side of the break, while Richie Towell put the icing on the cake with an 87th-minute third, a spectacular volley from outside the area.