Monday 21 August 2017

Post-match - Kalvin Morath-Gibbs

We were the masters of our own downfall after missing the chance to progress in the FA Cup on Saturday, writes James Barrett-Sterling.

Walton and Hersham earned a Tuesday night replay after leaving Colston Avenue with a creditable 1-1 draw.

And defender Kalvin Morath-Gibbs, who spectacularly scored our goal in first-half stoppage time, says there can be no room for self-regard second time around.

“The result was tough to take as we created a lot of chances, but they also raised their game and ultimately deserved a replay,” said the 26-year old centre back.

“The management team highlighted that we weren’t perhaps sharp enough mentally and that’s cost us the most. We need to get rid of that complacency and go for the win on Tuesday.”

Despite a sluggish first-half performance, we went into the break one-up on Saturday as Morath-Gibbs acrobatically volleyed in from six yards after Walton failed to clear a corner kick.

But then a combination of poor finishing and good goalkeeping by visiting keeper Brendan Norris meant Sanchez Benali’s finish during a 76th minute counter-attack was decisive.

“The ball just bounced to me and I just reacted. I’ve not scored many bicycle kicks in my time but it felt nice,” added Morath-Gibbs.

“But it was a shame it didn’t come as part of a win. We know what Walton can offer now so we need to raise our game and try to progress into the next round.”

The replay takes place at Stompond Lane on Tuesday 22nd August, kick-off 7.45pm.