Penalty joy keeps Brakes on a roll

After a dour 120 minutes had ended goalless, three penalty saves from Tony Breeden helped Brakes progress and provided another welcome filip for the club on the back of Saturday’s Zamaretto Premier Division win over high-flying Truro.

Holleran admitted there was little quality on show at St Georges Lane, but said the game still proved a useful runout for his in-form side.

“We tried out a different system in each half and also got 120 minutes into guys who hadn’t seen a lot of action,” he said.

“The workrate was where it needed to be, we’ve got no injuries and we’re through to the next round.

“It would have been nice to have kept hold of the ball and showed a bit more control, but at the end of the day there were more plusses than minuses.”

Saturday’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Truro gave Brakes their fifth successive maximum, a run which has catapulted them into the heart of the promotion race.

And, following an indifferent start to the campaign, Holleran believes his side are finally showing what they are capable of.

“I don’t care what the league table says, we’ve gone toe to toe against two of the best sides in the league in Brackley and Truro and come out on top.

“I’d still like us to look after the ball a bit better, but on Saturday our spirit and battling qualities came to the forefront.”

Brakes continue their break from league action tomorrow when they entertain Northern Premier League Division One outfit Bamber Bridge in the FA Trophy second round qualifying.

“They’re a typical northern side, hard working with a little bit of quality,” said Holleran.

“But we’re at home and it’s a great opportunity for us to progress.”