FA Cup

[monks data]

FA Cup | Third Round

Jan 3, 2015 at 3pm UK

Derby Derby County
1-0
Southport Southport

Martin (93' pen.)

FT(HT: 0-0)

Gary Brabin bemoans "cruel" Derby County defeat

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 03 January 2015

Gary Brabin insists that he is "proud" of his Southport players after seeing them exit the FA Cup at the third-round stage following a late defeat at Derby County.

Southport manager Gary Brabin has admitted that his players are "devastated" following their last-gasp FA Cup defeat at the hands of Derby County this afternoon.

Chris Martin struck in the final minute of time to end the Conference Premier outfit's run in round three at the iPro Stadium.

Despite seeing his side's hard work undone in the cruelest of circumstances, Brabin insists that he is still proud of his squad following their performance.

"The players in that dressing room are devastated, particularly with the timing - the 93rd minute - of the winner," he told BBC Sport. "It was a cruel way to go down, but I'm proud of the lads.

"They have showcased themselves well and I think they have left with a lot of friends. The Derby supporters clapped us off the pitch - that oozed class. We leave with our heads held high."

The draw for the fourth round of the competition will take place on Monday evening.