‘Fantastic’ Stan bounce back from FA Cup exit to secure Trophy passage

FA TROPHY 1ST QUAL ROUND

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DEAN Nicholson hailed a “fantastic” performance from Heaton Stannington as they moved on from their FA Cup disappointment to progress in the FA Trophy, registering a fine home win over Emley.

Nicholson and assistant manager Andy McBride were left frustrated as their side fell to a1-O defeat in a tight and nervy FA Cup first qualifying round tie at Northern League club Newcastle Blue Star and called for a reaction from their players.

A Friday night tie with their Northern Premier League East Division rivals provided the perfect setting for their Stan squad to rise to the challenge as Leighton Hopper and Connor Walker helped Nicholson's side progress.

Speaking after the win, the Stan boss said: “Last Saturday was a really edgy FA Cup tie that could have went either way.