Paul Brayson: “We got the win which we deserved” in Coast Road Classico
Newcastle Benfield boss Paul Brayson said his side “deserved” to beat Heaton Stannington following their 3-2 win in the Northumberland Senior Cup, on Tuesday.
Benfield and Heaton Stan met for the second time in as many weeks following their thrilling 4-4 draw at Grounsell Park on October 6.
Michael Colquhoun opened the scoring in the 16th minute before Louis Anderson equalised for Heaton Stan in the 29th minute.
Jay Errington restored the Lions lead in the 46th minute before Colquhoun added a third in the 52nd minute.
Konner Lamb scored a consolation goal for The Stan in stoppage time. The win means Newcastle Benfield advance to the quarter finals of the Northumberland Senior Cup.
Talking about the result, Brayson said: “It’s always good to get a win, especially in the cup. We had players missing, so to get a win it’s great and we’re in the next round.”
Speaking about the overall performance, he said: “I thought (every starter) and the lads that came on were brilliant. I said to them in the dressing room just work hard, graft, compete, make your tackles and get in (Heaton Stannington’s) faces.
“All my players did that and we got the win which I thought we deserved. I thought in the first half we dominated and I’m glad we hung on when they scored their second goal at the end.”
On Lewis Brass’ injury, Brayson said: “I just saw the collision, I didn’t see what happened. I didn’t know if it was our player or theirs.
“It looked a bad one and hopefully he’s ok”
Heaton Stan have since provided an update on Brass’ condition.
BRASS UPDATE
— Heaton Stannington FC (@Heatonstan) October 18, 2023
Following last nights worrying incident, we can share an update on Lewis Brass’s condition. He has sustained multiple facial injuries and will require further support once the swelling has settled down. He is now at home and thanks everyone for their support. pic.twitter.com/5XTTDiXCyt
The win takes Newcastle Benfield just two games from playing in the final at Newcastle United’s ground, St. James’ Park.
And regarding the importance of performing in cup competitions, he said: “You want to win every game, in this cup you just need a bit of luck then you get to St James’ Park.
“That’s our aim, we want to get to St James’ and play in the final there.
“Whatever comes next we will enjoy it”
Watch the full interview here
