COLCHESTER United manager John Ward says he was not surprised that non-league side Swindon Supermarine came so close to causing a major upset in the FA Cup second round this afternoon.

The high-flying League One hosts ensured their name would be in tomorrow’s third round draw amongst the Premier League clubs courtesy of David Mooney’s 21st minute strike, the goal securing a 1-0 win.

However, the Essex side were booed off by a significant section of their own fans after the Wiltshire minnows created a number of excellent chances, hitting the post and forcing two good saves from keeper Ben Williams.

“It was no more than I expected,” said Ward, reacting to the non-leaguers’ plucky display.

“I tried telling everybody in the build-up to the game that it wouldn’t be easy. They are an educated group of players with some Football League experience and they have played above themselves because it was a one-off cup game.

““Yes they have had chances in the game, but we’ve had 17 shots on goal too. The difference is one of ours went in and that’s what counts.

“FA Cup ties are all about getting through and we have done that.” Reacting to the boos from Colchester’s own supporters at the end, Ward added: “I have got my views but I will keep them in my own head.”

Swindon Supermarine manager Mark Collier said: “It’s a very, very disappointed dressing room at the moment because we feel we could have got something from the game.

“The longer the game went on there was only one team that looked like scoring and that was us. Those watching would never have said there were four divisions between the teams.

“We’re disappointed but we have to realise how far we’ve come. The club has made a lot of money from this run and hopefully enhanced its reputation.”

– More reaction in Monday’s EADT.