April 2011

In what he described as the ‘worst day of his life’, Abbott did more soul searching than he ever thought imaginable as the Cumbrians were thrashed 4-1 by Southampton.

But ever since that hard defeat in 2010, Abbott’s wheel of fate has been turning inexorably to a moment of redemption at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.

Following his side’s 1-0 success over Brentford, the boss was able to revel in a victory that few thought imaginable 12 months ago.

Abbott said: “Last year was the worst I have felt in my whole life. I must be the only manager to have seen his side be so poor in a cup final.

“It was a tough one to take. Last year rocked me massively. It made me question whether I should even be a manager.

“This win has put everything right on a personal note, but more importantly for the football club, the board and the fans.

“They will always be here and they can take away this memory and cherish it forever.”

Abbott also praised his man of the match Peter Murphy for bouncing back from the disappointment of last season’s final, where he gave away a penalty early in the game against the Saints.

“If a week is a long time in football then a whole year is an absolute lifetime. Peter took a lot of criticism last time. I am so pleased for him,” added Abbott.

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