Robinson proud of Town fight
Hungerford score late to beat Cirencester in FA Cup
HUNGERFORD Town manager Danny Robinson has praised his side’s character after they beat Cirencester Town 3-2 in the third qualifying round of the Emirates FA Cup.
Keith Emmerson and Ryan Seager put the Crusaders ahead in the second-half goals, but two goals in as many minutes for the visitors saw the game level.
Despite Callum Willmoth being sent off, Seager netted a 90th-minute winner to put the home side into the next round, where they will face National League Bromley at Bulpit Lane on Saturday, October 16.
Speaking after the game, Robinson said: “You look at a National League South club facing a Step 4 club and they had everything to gain and we had everything to lose.
“For me it was all about getting in the hat and getting through to the next round.
“I have to give credit
to Cirencester because I thought that in the first half they were magnificent and for 30 minutes we didn’t lay a glove on them.
“They’re unbeaten in their league and they are used to winning,” he said.
“When we won the Hellenic League at Thatcham, we went 40 games unbeaten, so we know what that winning feeling is.”
It didn’t all go Hungerford’s way in the cup clash at Bulpit Lane, but Robinson was thrilled with how his side fought back after conceding two quick goals.
He said: “One thing I try and install in my teams is character and belief and to get in front.
“Yes I am disappointed to concede two goals, but to go and get the winner with 10 men just shows you how much character we have in the squad.
“Whenever we have gone down to 10 men before we have showed great resilience, great character and great fight.”
Seager’s first-time finish in stoppage time was commended by Robinson and he believes it can be a big moment in the forward’s season.
“It is a great finish, he is on the run and he’s hit it first time.
“It’s why he is one of the sought-after players in this league and there’s a reason why we had to turn down a couple of bids for him in the summer.
“He is only going to get better. This year he is fitter, sharper and I know he hasn’t scored from open play in the league yet, but it will come.”