CLEAN SHEETS WORTH THEIR WEIGHT IN GOLD
Date: 05 Nov 2008
The Johnstone’s Paint Trophy area quarter finals proved that the art of defending really is priceless, after a clutch of clean sheets paved the way for a number of sides.
Colchester, Darlington, Scunthorpe, Tranmere and Luton all progressed with 1-0 wins, while Rotherham reaffirmed their love affair with the competition, after beating much fancied Leicester City 2-0.
And to prove that last round’s 7-0 hammering of Wycombe was no fluke, Shrewsbury Town went on a goal rampage again, this time thrashing Dagenham & Redbridge 5-0.
Second round hero Grant Holt, who scored five in Shrewsbury Town’s last trophy outing, hit the goal trail again with another two goals. Boss Paul Simpson said: “It was a good all round performance. I was delighted with the way we defended as well as the way that we attacked. I’ve got absolutely nothing to complain about.
“We have won, we are through to the next round, and that is all that matters.”
For Luton Town and Rotherham United, the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy is continuing to offer the chance of silverware this season, with both clubs just three games away from a day to remember at Wembley.
Luton chairman Nick Owen told the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy that winning the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy was a priority for the Hatters, and who can bet against them?
After his team’s last gasp 1-0 win at Walsall, following on from their penalty shoot-out drama against Brentford in round two, maybe they are destined for a nostalgic return to Wembley.
Rotherham meanwhile, have gone from something of a surprise package to a favourite to win the silverware after a number of stunning successes so far.
The Millers have accounted for many people’s tips, dispatching Leeds United and now Leicester City. When those results are added to their amazing scalps in the Carling Cup, then it is no wonder that Rotherham are considered as cup specialists.
Millers boss Mark Robins said: “We will just have to wait and see who we will get in the next round and take it from there.
“We have beaten two very good sides in this competition so we are going well and will enjoy the victory.”
The draw for the area semi finals of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy will take place on Saturday November 8th live on Soccer AM, from 9am on Sky Sports.
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