Managers hail memorable occasion at Wembley

John Sheridan and Paolo Di Canio have both paid tribute to the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy after Chesterfield beat Swindon Town by two goals to nil at the showpiece final on Sunday.

March 2012

Reflecting on the scenes of Chesterfield fans celebrating after the final whistle, Spireites boss Sheridan admitted that the occasion brought back similar feelings to that of the 1991 Football League Cup final in which he scored the winner against Manchester United.

He said: “The feelings are very similar because we’ve won the trophy which is what it’s all about. These are such big occasions and come with a big crowd and expectations, so I’m pleased we’ve been able to deliver.

"It’s a great achievement. It's a lovely day out for us and nearly 20,000 fans, who have not had a lot to cheer about this season. We're going to enjoy it.

"I am lucky enough to have won, and scored, here as a player. To do it as a manager makes me proud — and proud for everyone involved with the club."

Counter-part Paolo Di Canio admitted that his Swindon players let the occasion of a Johnstone’s Paint Trophy final affect their performance.

The Italian, whose side were favourites to lift the trophy, said: "I was praying I could change eight of my players and maybe also the manager."

"In the first half we played very well but the second half was a disaster. It's happened to me in the past. The best players when they go to a cup final lose concentration because to win is not easy.

“Probably I made a mistake in choosing some players but my experienced players performed very badly in the second half. That hurt me. I needed more from them."

And to top it all off, Sheridan declared that taking the trophy back to Chesterfield was the taste of success which he wants to bring to the club’s league form.

“This (winning the trophy) is what we want to do. We want to be successful. It’ll give everyone a lift at the club and obviously it’s been a great day for the fans who were supporting us throughout the game.”

Johnstone's. Bringing colour to the beautiful game.