Two goals, a win and progress in the FA Cup after a tricky tie with a strong Darlington outfit. Not a bad night’s work for Spartans striker Dan Maguire and after hitting an impressive brace against the Quakers the former Seaton Delaval man was understandably buoyant, describing his side’s win as “important”.
“It was a good night and it was a relief to be back on the scoresheet. Obviously we have had a few defeats and haven’t been on a great run so it was an important win”
A lacklustre first half performance gave little notice of what was to follow from Maguire and his team mates and they dominated the second period. Croft Park crackled with excitement as Spartans pinned back the visitors and Maguire revealed that was thanks to strong words being spoken in the changing room at the interval.
“We were told that we had to get our act together and start playing like a team. The manager said to go out like a new team in the second half and to be fair we have done exactly that”
Spartans knew going into the replay with the Quakers that the prize for the winners would be a trip to Evo-Stik Northern Premier League title challengers Skelmersdale United in the Second Qualifying Round. Despite a tough looking draw Maguire urged his side to give everything to make it through to the next round.
“We don’t have anything to fear no matter who we play whether it’s in the league or the cup. We just have to give our all and try to treat every game like it’s our last”