Simon’s huge sigh of relief

SIMON Corney admitted he feared the worst when trekking to Stevenage this week.

Having often witnessed Athletic’s tendency to follow rousing results with outright shockers, the meek first-half display didn’t lighten his mood too much. Boro held a 1-0 lead that could easily have been bigger.

Ultimately, three points were claimed - the only downside being Corney may need to raid some of the cash the FA Cup run has brought with it.

“I was really pleased,” said Corney. “After Saturday’s game against Everton, I feared some kind of letdown – especially after the first half-hour. We just couldn’t seem to get going.

“Tactically, it was spot-on. The guys worked so hard for it. We deserved the three points and were good value for it.

“But we lost three good players who all came off injured - so we may have to go shopping again.

“Irrespective of that, the changes Tony Philliskirk made worked, whichever way you look at it.

“It is a really nice little run we have put together.”