Jonny Maxted was the spot kick hero – and it was what the Stanley fans expected!
Last season, Maxted was in the nets for Guiseley and his penalty shoot-out heroics helped the non-league team through to the next round of the Emirates FA Cup, at the expense of the Reds.
This time he was producing the goods for Stanley in the Checkatrade Trophy as he saved three penalties – one in normal time – as last night's game finished 2-2 and the Reds went through to the last 16 thanks to a 4-2 shoot-out win over holders Lincoln City.
“I am really pleased,” said Maxted, who is competing with Middlesbrough loan keeper Connor Ripley for the No.1 spot at the Wham Stadium.
“We should have put the game to bed in normal time but it was a well-fought battle and, going to penalties, I was always confident in saving them, it was like Guiseley all over again.
“I have been waiting this long to repay the fans. Obviously I enjoy penalties and enjoy saving them even more. Hopefully the fans have had a good time and I heard them chanting my name which was really good.
“There is a secret to my penalty saves but I am not telling you!”
After three League One defeats, Stanley have now got two cup wins under their belts in the last few days, beating Cheltenham in the FA Cup on Saturday and now Lincoln.
“It was a massive week for us, we went through a little rut but got a win on Saturday and last night and it's a massive confidence boost for everyone in the changing room," continued the keeper.
“The Checkatrade Trophy is a big incentive to try and get to Wembley and we will keep pushing on and working hard to do that.
“It's everyone's dream to get to Wembley and it would be a massive payday for the club.
“This club is going places and bringing more money will push it on even quicker.”
Maxted is hoping to have pushed Ripley all the way as boss John Coleman has some big decisions to make ahead of Saturday's sell-out against Sunderland.
“It's one of those where I keep on the toes of Connor and all the outfield players keep on the toes of everyone else and that's all you can do.
“As second choice, or on the bench, you have to keep that pressure on to push the boys even harder and, if they don't do the business, the gaffer will change it.
“We have competition all over and the strength in depth is unbelievable.”