Gaffer's half time team talk has desired effect.
Darren Ferguson inspired his team to come from a goal down to lower league opposition in Sunday’s FA Cup second round tie against Cambridge United.The Scot saw a “disappointing” first half from his side in which they fell behind to Luke Berry’s 23rd minute header before a stunning second half comeback was completed within 11 minutes of Ferguson’s half time team talk.
“I said to them (the players) that on Monday night when you’re watching the cup draw and Cambridge draw Manchester United or Chelsea you’re going to be gutted so you’re going to have to do something about it and fair play to them, credit the players again as it’s another game where we’ve come from behind,” he said.
“They’ve shown good character and some games especially the cup games it’s about getting to the next round. It wasn’t an exceptional performance but some things were very good.
“We didn’t offer much in the first half, we were disappointing and the players knew that. I was glad to get to half time if I’m being honest. The first goal - the equaliser - it’s a good hit and maybe a bit fortunate that it’s gone in.
“The second and third goals are good quality and that ten minute period has won us the game.”
Everton loanee Conor Grant was the star of the show for the visitors - who booked their place in the third round for a third straight season - with his emphatic double either side of Mitchell Lund’s tap in.
“He’s got that in his locker, he’s got a good left foot and he’s got a goal in him and he’s got better and better,” Ferguson said of the twenty year old.
“We know he’s enjoying it, he’s playing every week, he’s getting better, he’s getting stronger and it’s great for him that he’s playing in these sorts of games which are completely different to what he’s used to.
“If Roberto (Martinez) calls him back then so be it but I’m hoping to hold on to him.
“I think we’ve been going along fine with some good performances and good results so they knew there was no surprise in the way the game went.”