Runcorn Linnets manager Billy Paynter was left pleased by the response from his side against City of Liverpool as they eye FA Cup progression.
Despite making a losing start to the campaign against Chasetown, they bounced back to winning ways.
Lewis Doyle, Jacques Welsh and a stoppage time penalty from Ryan Brooke helped them to a 3-2 win over City of Liverpool.
“I’m really pleased, I expected a response,” Paynter told Off The Park. “I felt on Saturday that there was too many big players that didn’t turn up on the day but against City of Liverpool, I thought we coped with the directness of them.
“They had Quarless playing on the right-hand side, we knew he was going to be a focal point for them, we dealt with that and weathered the storm.
“Second-half, we got a foothold in the game as it started getting more stretched – Lynchy, Doyley, Jacques started dominating and Will Saxon was lively, both wingers were.
“Chasetown were very rugged and well organised out of possession, I felt we only broke them down we were 2-0 down, two mistakes that built up for the goals but when we got a goal back, I felt we could go get another to equalise but it wasn’t to be.
“Chasetown were organised, they’re no mugs.”
Last season, Linnets enjoyed a successful run in the FA Trophy beating the likes of Workington, North Shields, Ossett United and Belper Town before it came to a head away to National League North side Spennymoor Town.
Paynter is looking to emulate that run in the FA Cup. He added: “We want to emulate the good cup run from last season and see where it takes us but Saturday is going to be a tough game.
“Stalybridge came down and have made some good signings, it won’t be an easy game. I’m only concerned with how we are, how we perform and if we are, we’re a match for anyone.
“They had a good start, it’s only early days, I’m only concerned about my team, our main focus will be on how we can get our key players on the ball. I’m expecting a tough game, any game at this level or this stage is always going to be tough.”
