October 2009

The second round of the competition produced 50 goals, an average of more than three per game, and all of the big clubs are still there fighting with Leeds United, Norwich City, Charlton Athletic and Southampton all progressing to the next round.

And in true trophy style, nerves were frayed at many grounds, with Bradford, Chesterfield, Swindon, Hereford and Southampton all sneaking through in penalty shoot-outs.

Meanwhile, past winners MK Dons are also looking a strong bet to repeat their trophy success after a 2-0 win over Southend, while fellow 2008 finalists Grimsby chalked up an impressive 2-0 on the road to Hartlepool.

The second round was certainly a night to remember, and reinforces the Johnstone's Paint Trophy as a competition which offers great value for money, and unrivalled football fare.

Lazarus performance of the night was witnessed at Valley Parade, as Bradford came back from 2-0 down in a penalty shoot-out to beat big spenders Notts County, after the game finished 2-2 in normal time.

Bradford keeper Simon Eastwood was the hero, saving penalties from Delroy Facey and Kasper Schmeichel as Bradford came back to win.

Mind you, Southampton can also lay claim to the title of Comeback Kings too, fighting back from two goals down to reach the quarter-finals after a penalty shoot-out against League Two Torquay.

Tamer Tuna grabbed the headlines for Charlton, marking his full Charlton debut with a goal as the Addicks beat Barnet to progress to the quarter-finals.

And what about Drew Talbot, who can claim to be the form man in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy, taking his tally in the competition to four with a brace in the game of the night at Saltergate against Huddersfield.

After the Yorkshire side somehow drew the game 3-3 with two goals deep into stoppage time, Donal McDermott eventually scored a decisive spot kick for Chesterfield as the game went to penalties.

Carlisle striker Scott Dobie will certainly remember the round as well, continuing his good run of form with a brace in his side's 4-2 win over Macclesfield.

Port Vale have taken a liking to the Johnstone's Paint Trophy as well.

The transfer listed home side were quick out the blocks, bagging three goals in the opening 13 minutes to kill off their tie with Stockport.

Johnstone’s. Bringing colour to the beautiful game.