Jon Underwood dreaming of a big third-round FA Cup tie

Posted Wednesday, November 21, 2018 by PA

Slough joint-manager Jon Underwood is dreaming of the third round after an 8-7 penalty shootout win over Sutton secured their second-round spot.

George Wells’ penalty in the 18 spot-kick epic won it after the replay finished 1-1 following extra time, James Dobson cancelling out Harry Beautyman’s opener for Sutton.

Either Gillingham or Hartlepool await next but it’s the third round which is grabbing the National League South side’s attention.

“We’ve been in the second round a lot and the target is now the third round. We want to get one of the big boys,” said Underwood.

“We’ve been dreaming about it for a few rounds now. No other competition gives you that.

“We’re 90 minutes from a Manchester City or Manchester United.

“Wellsy at the end kept his head and stuck it away. All sorts of things are going through my head but to get past a side like Sutton is a real achievement.”

As for Sutton, it was their turn to be the slayed giants – two seasons after an infamous run to the fifth round.

“It was an end-to-end cup game – a great cup tie. Slough were outstanding. There was nothing in the game,” said manager Paul Doswell.

“The big disappointment is financial as the cup has become such a lifeline for non-league clubs. We’ve lost pounds. We’ve lost the chance to earn 60 grand.

“That money could have been used to strengthen the squad – that will not happen.

“But we will not hide, my team is full of character.”