Northampton Town Under 18s coach Shane Goddard was delighted with his side after they progressed to the third round of the FA Youth Cup with a 3-2 win at home to Stockport County on Wednesday evening.
Josh Tomlinson scored an extra time winner to send the young Cobblers through.
Speaking after the match, Goddard said: “The most important thing is that we’re in the next round.
“We’re still in every cup competition and that’s what we wanted at the start of the night.
“We wanted the boys to walk off the pitch feeling that they’d done all they could, and we felt that there was more in us for large periods.
“We didn’t reach the levels that we know we can and we made hard work of the game.
“However, we took our chance when it presented itself and whether you’re at your best in terms of performance or not, you deserve to be in the next round if you win a cup game.
“The boys were resolute and they found a way to win.
“We’re really happy and the boys can be really proud that we’re through.”
715 fans witnessed the dramatic cup tie at Sixfields, and Goddard added: “I can’t thank everybody enough for coming and supporting the boys tonight.
“It makes a massive difference and it’s an opportunity for them to showcase themselves.
“Their journeys are built up for nights like tonight.
“I’d like to think that the supporters went away thinking that we’re a group that doesn’t give up, believes in themselves and works hard for each other.”
Goddard’s side face Luton for the third time this season on Saturday, travelling to Bedfordshire in the EFL Youth Alliance Cup regional semi final.
Goddard said: “Saturday’s game is really important.
“We have to enjoy tonight as much as we can, and then switch on to the weekend.”