Fleetwood Town's manager-hero opens up after knocking Arsenal out of the Carabao Cup, drawing a link to Manchester United.
"Fleetwood manager" remains astonished after eliminating "Arsenal" from the Carabao Cup // Goalkeeper revealed being inspired by "Grimsby" who beat Man Utd last year.
Matt Lawler, Fleetwood Town's manager, admitted he could hardly believe that his team defeated Premier League champions "the Gunners" Arsenal in the Carabao Cup round of 16 last night.
In the match, Fleetwood took an early 1-0 lead before Arsenal equalized 1-1, ending regular time at this score. The winner was decided by a penalty shootout, where Fleetwood scored more accurately, winning 5-3 and advancing to the quarter-finals.
Lawler said, "I can hardly believe it. It was the greatest night in the club's history in terms of hosting such an opponent and beating the champions."
"We knew before the game that we weren’t naive or selfish enough to think we could easily beat the best team in the country, the best-managed team, the best-organized team, with world-class players."
"Therefore, we had to rely on our luck. We needed to close down space and block their options, and I think we did very well for most of the game. Of course, goals can happen, but that’s expected. They play excellent football, with players who find openings, as we see every week in the Premier League."
"I’m a passionate football fan, watching from the National League up to the Premier League and Championship. So, for me, it was a tough game to prepare for, but I’m very proud that the players felt that way and turned that into pride for the town, the club, and everyone."
Meanwhile, Jay Lynch, Fleetwood’s heroic goalkeeper who saved Bruno Guimarães’ penalty, said the team was inspired by Grimsby Town’s upset victory over Manchester United last year.
"My voice changed from giving defensive orders. The whole team played excellently throughout the game. To beat the English champions, credit must go to them (my teammates)."
"We were encouraged by Grimsby’s win over Manchester United last year, so we compared ourselves to that."
"This victory is amazing for the club and the town. Honestly, it means a great deal to everyone."