Corney: We gave it our best shot

ATHLETIC chairman Simon Corney reflected on another proud day for his club despite the team’s 2-0 FA Cup defeat at Anfield.

Many outsiders may have feared for Latics as they went head-to-head against one of the Premier League’s finest for the third time in as many seasons. But Corney couldn’t fault any aspect of the latest big day out on Merseyside, despite the result.

“It was a fantastic effort,” Corney said. “They weren’t overrun or overawed, they just gave it their all throughout.

“At 1-0 down I thought we had a great shout for a penalty, and then there was always that chance Liverpool would get a second goal because we were pushing forward.

“That first goal came out of nothing, and it was quite a soft one considering we had worked so hard to keep them at bay for so long. But, you look at Liverpool’s team and they’ve just got phenomenal players throughout. Any team is up against it when they come to Anfield.

“All in all we were magnificent. I’m definitely proud of the players, not disappointed. It’s been another proud day for the club and the fans have been amazing, too.

Athletic’s coffers will have been boosted by more than £200,000 from this season’s FA Cup run, and it appears some of the money will be ploughed back into the squad.

“We drafted in three players last Friday, but there’s scope to get one or two more yet, definitely,” added Corney cautiously.

“Don’t forget we’ve got a good squad already, and it’s a big squad. We’re certainly good enough, too, so I’m not worried about the remainder of the season.”