ACCRINGTON Stanley manager John Coleman heaped praise on his players following their FA Cup First Round triumph over Notts County.

Ronan Murray's goal put the League One side ahead but Luke Joyce and Marcus Carver scored to set up a second round tie at home to Yeovil Town.

“The players deserve the credit more than myself,” Coleman said.

“They’ve rolled their sleeves up and it was a tough game because Notts County are a very good side. It was difficult to overcome them.

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“They showed a lot of character, grit and determination to grind out a win that I think they thoroughly deserved.”

The Reds boss had asked his side to show more verve in attack before the game after disappointing showings in their previous two matches and the 52 year-old was delighted with the response.

“In terms of endeavour, being on the front foot and pushing a good team back, that’s probably the best we have been since I came back,” said Coleman. “We’ve got to strive to bring that into our league form and climb the table as quickly as we can.”

The manager conceded that his side were fortunate not to give away a penalty in the first half when goalkeeper Jack Rose appeared to foul County striker Garry Thompson but he was happy to take the good fortune.

"I must admit, if I was Shaun Derry I would feel aggrieved not to get a penalty at 1-0," he added. "That can change the game but that’s the little bit of luck you need in football.

“We’ve ridden our luck, dug in and all of the players have put in great performances. All of them would be a minimum of 8/10 and when that happens you generally win the game.”

A gate of just 1,026 saw Stanley progress to the next round but Coleman could not speak highly enough of those who did attend with the game clashing with England's international friendly against Scotland.

“I was disappointed with the numbers, but you can’t criticise the fans who came because they've been brilliant," he added.

"The standing ovation they gave the players at the end was quite fitting, I thought.”

It left the Reds boss to reflect upon the joy of not having a free weekend at the start of December.

“It’s horrible when you’re out of the cup and you feel as though you haven’t been invited to the party so we’re glad to have our invitation.”