NORRIS HAPPY TO FRONT UP

LUKE NORRIS grabbed two goals in two minutes - and then credited competition up front for Stevenage’s success.

Jamie Reid, who sealed victory over King’s Lynn, was Norris’s regular partner last season until Danny Rose arrived this summer.

With the 28-year-old injured, the duo once again combined to great effect. And Norris (above left), who wants Arsenal in tonight’s third-round draw, feels battling for places is paying off.

He said “We’ve real good competition up there, Danny has been outstanding for us.

“He got a nasty knock last weekend, so it was a chance for Reid and me to play together.

“We played a lot together last year but not so much this year. We know each other really well so it worked nicely.

“Three quick goals just kills the tie, and it was very professional from us. Me and my family are all big Arsenal fans so home or away I’ll snap your hand off.”

King’s Lynn defied their League Two visitors in a first half that ended goalless. But a lack of firepower proved to be the undoing of the National League North side.

The tie was settled in devastating five-minute spell after the restart.

Norris scored in the 49th minute, soon added another and Reid made sure.

Linnets boss Tommy Widdrington said: “I’m very proud of them.”