Pete Wild hails Fleetwood’s defensive effort in FA Cup win

Fleetwood boss Pete Wild was pleased with the application of his side as they edged past Barnet in the FA Cup.

Goals from defenders Zach Medley and Harrison Holgate did the damage for the hosts who were good value for the win.

“I’m delighted with the performance,” said Wild. “We’ve been saying we want to start games much better so to get an early goal like we did was so pleasing.

“I thought we defended really well today. Harrison Neal had a really top game again and that is as good as I’ve seen Matty Virtue play this season.

“It was also great to see Zach Medley back in the team. Everybody was top though and I’m really pleased to get the win and to be in the hat for the next round.”

Barnet boss Dean Brennan had few complaints at the result and was quick to bemoan what he feels has been a challenging schedule for his squad.

Even an excellent late strike from Callum Stead could not force extra time as the Bees’ focus moves to League Two consolidation.

“They started the game better than us and deservedly got their goal,” said Brennan.

“We’ve missed two gilt-edged chances at the end of the first half. The main one from Steady could’ve got us back into it but ultimately it wasn’t to be.

“Our defending was poor for their second goal and that has been the difference-maker in the end.

“We’ve not had a lot of luck on the injury front either. Britt Assombalonga looks like he’s broken his nose and we are now without Lee Ndlovu.

“We have a squad that is built for 46 games so without disrespecting the FA Cup, they are further games that our squad is struggling to cope with. We can focus our attention on the league now and that has always been our aim.”