Rob Elliot praised United for progression into the First Round of the Emirates FA Cup after a 2-1 win against Tamworth at Brunton Park, but warned that the Blues needed to keep pushing standards higher.
United's Head Coach was pleased that the Cumbrians secured progression, noted that his side are developing but urged his players for more ruthlessness in the final third.
“Really, really pleased to get the win,” he said.
“When it comes to the cup, it's all about getting that win because it's a one-off game. There's so much on that game and we've managed to do that.
“What we're trying to do, how we're trying to play and how we're developing is there to see, but we need to round the edges off a little bit and make sure we stick to the plan and the process.
“We want to see attacking football, dominating the ball with purpose, but we've just got to get a bit more ruthless in and around the box.”
Regan Linney made his mark in an attacking midfield role, with Elliot highlighting the qualities that make him such a threat in the final third.
“We put Regan back in that number ten position because we want his unpredictability. We want him to go and sniff chances.
“I don't know many players like him. He's a ball magnet around the box. He picks up on loose balls and he's obviously got that ability to go past people and get shots off.
“Regan is going to get better and better.”
The Head Coach also praised Linney's determination following a difficult period.
“People need to remember, two and a bit weeks ago he was in hospital. He couldn't breathe.
“He's still turning out, still playing games. We've had a couple of good, honest chats, me and Regan.
“He cares and he's passionate. It's just challenging him in terms of how he manages his frustrations sometimes, whether that's with himself or whatever it might be.
“I still think he's got so much more to go. He'll always score a goal because that's what Regan does.”
Elliot was also impressed by Micah Obiero, who led the line and caused problems for the visitors.
“Micah is going to be a top, top player for us. His energy, his running, his pace and his power.
“He's been exceptionally sharp in training. He's physically way above the level and has a really good understanding of how to use his body and the ball.
“We've only seen glimpses of it. He's only going to get better for us.
“What I really like about Micah is there's a real deep desire to kick on and be the best he can be at the highest level.”
Kenton Richardson and Tom Anderson were also singled out for praise after coming into the side.
“Kenton knows what we want to be and how we want to play, and he brings that straight away.
“He's a real leader on and off the pitch, and I thought he was exceptional today. We saw why we brought Kenton to the club.
“Tom Anderson was absolutely superb today and played like he'd been here for ten years.”
There was also a memorable moment for academy youngster Will Raftery, who made his first-team debut.
“I'm really pleased for Will. He absolutely deserves to be on the pitch.
“In four or five minutes he created three or four opportunities. He's got a slight frame, but he affects everything he does.
“Everyone in the academy deserves a lot of credit because seeing a young lad make his debut isn't just about him, it's about all the people who have supported him over the years.”
Despite securing progression, Elliot stressed that his side must continue to improve.
“I still think we need to keep pushing the standards higher. We don't just accept that we win, we want to win our way.
“You can see the improvements. We're getting the fans off their seats and then sitting them back down again at the moment, but I don't think we're far away from keeping them off their feet.
“We're four games unbeaten, with three wins and we're through in the cup, but we're not here just to accept that standard.
“We're here to push the club and build it, and make sure we're getting better in every department, on and off the pitch.”
Looking ahead to Monday night's first-round draw, Elliot hopes for an occasion that will excite supporters.
“Let's go for the biggest club at home!
“I want something that gives us an opportunity to showcase ourselves, show the unity and show what we are as a club and what we're trying to do.
“Hopefully it gives some of these younger players an opportunity to play on the biggest platform.”