Wembley chance missed for Reds

SHELDAN KEAY

JOHN Coleman believed it was an opportunity missed after his Accrington Stanley side were beaten by Bury in the Checkatrade Trophy.

The Reds suffered a 4-2 defeat at the Wham Stadium, meaning they were unable to progress into the last eight of the competition.

Coleman had previously stated his desire to go all the way and reach the final at Wembley, and he admits it was disappointing to be knocked out.

“I’m frustrated. They moved the ball better and had more energy than us. We were good in the first half but in the second half we brought it on ourselves,” he said.

“I take responsibility for how we play and they were better than us. We had to make a few enforced changes and made a few extra ones too, but so did Bury.

“We were winning 2-0 but then they scored from a throw in that we should be better at, and instead of steadying the ship at 2-1 up we panicked a bit and conceded another poor goal from our perspective.

“The game is in the melting pot then and we miss a sitter through Mark Hughes to make it 3-2.

“We probably should have had a penalty and then we’re throwing everything at them, but they break away and score.

“It’s disappointing as while they’re a good League Two side, they’re still a League Two side.

“They were better than us on the night though, so we can’t have any complaints, congratulations to them.”

Do you have a story for the sportsdesk? Email us: sportnews@ menmedia.co.uk or call 0161 211 2497