Danny Elliott aiming for Emirates FA Cup progress this weekend

Striker Danny Elliott is looking forward to turning attentions to the Emirates FA Cup this weekend as the Iron take on fellow Vanarama National League North side Brackley Town.

Firstly, reflecting on last weekend’s home encounter against Buxton which was abandoned and has been subsequently ordered to be replayed, the 27-year-old said: “I’m delighted it’s voided. It was a tough game, they came here with a plan and set up really well against us. It was ridiculously hot in the first half and then it threw it down in the second. They sat in with having the lead and a man sent off.

“We were disappointed to throw it away after getting a goal back, and then at the end it was ridiculous really. We’re buzzing that we get the opportunity to play the game again. When we do, it’ll be a very different game.

“It’s frustrating, because the Curzon weather was as bad, if not worse, and we played through that for 20-25 minutes.”

Elliott missed the chance to equalise from the penalty spot in added time, with the away goalkeeper saving, but with conditions at the time worsening by the second, the frontman alluded to the difficulty of the challenge.

Further affirming that the game is struck from the records, he began his answer by joking: “What penalty? 

“It was really difficult. I stepped up. I want to be taking penalties in those big moments. It’s easy to take penalties when you’re 3-0 or 4-0 up, but I want to be taking them when they decide games. I back myself to do that, and I have a good record. I’m very confident and still back my ability to take many more.

“It affects the mindset as you’re taking it. You couldn’t pass it along the floor in case the ball stopped. It affects your technique a little bit. I don’t need to dwell on it though, as ultimately it didn’t effect the scoreline.”

The Saints are a team Elliott has faced on numerous occasions, and Elliott knows the challenge they will pose for United on Saturday. Having been close to promotion over the last few years, he’s sure they’ll be up there once more.

“I’ve played Brackley a lot over the years,” he said. 

“They’ve got some players I know well, and they’re a good team. It’s good to take us away from the league for a little bit, and we’re playing against a team that’s going to be right up there. We can take a look at them before the league game.

“The FA Cup is really important to us. We want to do well in it, and it gives us an opportunity to kick on in another competition. Hopefully we can put a good performance in at home and make up for a not-so-good performance last weekend.

“It’s a home tie. When we’re at Glanford Park, we play some really good football. We’re all really confident here and the environment is perfect for us to play our style of football and put on a good performance.”