Stuart Gray voiced his disappointment – and pride – after watching Wednesday depart the FA Cup in the dying minutes of the tie with Manchester City.
Gray said: “I thought it was nailed on that we were going to get them back to Hillsborough for a replay. It’s a different feeling to the last time we were here and we can walk away with our heads held high after a great performance.”
The head coach was pleased with the way Wednesday frustrated City, particularly in the first half, and said they had exploited a perceived weakness down the City left for Atdhe Nuhiu’s goal.
He also reflected on not beng able to get a second “killer goal” and on giving the ball away too often.
However, Gray added: “I am proud of every one of the players, they put in a fantastic shift and we held our own against the Premier League champions.”
He also paid tribute to the 5,500 supporters, saying: “They were behind the team from the first to the 95th minute. I just wish we could have got a draw and taken City back to Hillsborough for a replay.”