Following Carlisle United's 2-1 win over Harborough Town in the Isuzu FA Trophy, we spoke to Blues' left-back Sam Murray.
Speaking to CUTV, he discussed his first United goal, playing on artificial grass and staying firm to secure progression in the competition.
Here is everything we learnt.
Progress secured and a crucial opening goal
“(A), really good feeling, you know, through to the next round, got the first goal, it was crucial we stayed on top because it’s a tough place to come and, you know, they were dangerous, they were quite a physical side.”
Job done on a difficult pitch
“Definitely, like I said, the pitch, you know, tough coming to play on a 4G, but we stuck to the game plan, good team performance, and that’s all that matters.”
Adapting to different conditions
“You know, the ball just bobbles up a bit, but I think you’ve got to take a little bit more care with each pass, you know, communicating is massive in games like this.”
Handling pressure and atmosphere
“The Harborough fans, they were plodding them on so, it was important that we stayed on top and we managed to do that for the whole game.”
A huge penalty save at a key moment
“He (Harry Lewis) did well to get down to that; he’s good at saving penalties, so, big up to H.
"But, yeah, very important.”
Standing firm late on
“Yeah, well, they even piled pressure on at the end, but, you know, winning our first contacts and second duels was crucial, but we did well to see it out.”
A first goal in Carlisle colours
“First goal in Carlisle colours, felt good and hopefully many more to come.”
Patience rewarded
“Just a bit of relief, you know, not really played that much this season, but whenever I do come in it’s all about the team and progression; just pleased for myself and the team to be in the next round.”
