Mike’s ‘perfect’ strike

ATHLETIC’S battling nature against a tactically switched-on Orient put them into the hat for tonight's second-round FA Cup draw for the fourth season in a row.

Manager Lee Johnson felt his side produced a mixed display. Mike Jones's lovely, flighted free-kick won the contest against one of Sky Bet League One's best-funded clubs.

Johnson was left to reflect on an imperfect performance that brought a perfect result.

“We were made to work hard for it by a good side,” he said. “They have the new owner, Francesco Becchetti and they have spent big. The XI they had out was a strong one and it was a tough game for us, one I am delighted to get through.

“It was a strong mental performance, considering we lost our unbeaten run at Bristol City.

“I am just delighted to have come out winning, albeit without a vintage display.

“We work on free-kicks and have some good takers. Mike Jones just spun it over the wall.

“We talk about the 'letterbox', just over the heads of the wall and under the bar, and it was perfect.”