Floodlit Robbery

Pools fans must wish we had the same luck in the league. If we did we'd be in the Premiership in four years time...

Salford dominated this game by passing to each other and running into space. We hoofed the ball forward aimlessly at every opportunity and looked like a team of strangers.

And yet we won.

Those who chose to watch this turgid performance on TV at least had the option of hiding behind the sofa or making a cup of tea. Those at the Vic really had to suffer with only the display  of Carson in goal to celebrate.

Admittedly most of Salford's many attempts were long range and fairly feeble, but once or twice Carson had to pull out the stops.

Pools finally got some spirit and confidence in extra time when a decent cross was headed home by Fenwick. Then subs Walker and Mandron provided the only bit of quality in the game. We had to wait until the 120th minute but Walker's lobbed pass was exquisite and Mandron's left foot volley not far behind.

Those two proved we have the odd player with a bit of skill. Those of us who watch week in week out know there are others  - why on earth can't they show it in these big games?