It was a memorable night for supporters of League Two side Cambridge United as they knocked Championship side Brentford out of the EFL Cup.
They got off to a dream start after two goalless draws in the league, Marc Richards getting his Cambridge account up and running in the third minute. Brentford, who made nine changes from the side that beat Middlesbrough, drew level in the second half through Marcus Forss.
A resolute and spirited Cambridge never looked over-awed by their illustrious opponents, defending stoically when called upon to keep the tie level at 1-1. That meant the lottery of a penalty shoot out and, to the delight of the strong away following, it was the U’s who triumphed, 5-4 following Paul Lewis’ save.
“[I’m] immensely proud of the effort they put in,” manager Colin Calderwood told the Cambridge News after the game.
“It was greatly helped by the start and getting the goal when they were a little bit slack with one or two passes. As the game went on, their passing and movement was of the highest order. We’ve got to be proud as we’ve kept them to the one goal, ended up drawing the game and gone to penalties.”
It gave U’s fans a chance to celebrate after a tough couple of years. After coming out of the National League they’ve stagnated a little and have spent the last two seasons battling against the drop.
They’re a passionate bunch in the university city though and they’ve taken the opportunity to revel in their side’s brave win. One poster even suggested midfielder Reggie Lambe should be honoured by the queen for his efforts.
Again everyone on that pitch gave it their absolute all, which is all you can ask and more as a fan. Was nervous about the pens but we did so well and Burton managed to get a touch on everyone of their pens. UP THE U’S!⚽️
— Megs (@megan_stigwood) August 13, 2019
That was unreal 💛 Lambe was great, everyone was great, thanks for being great
— Sam Douglas (@Sam_Mallory) August 13, 2019
https://twitter.com/juIeskounde/status/1161381109252395011
Such a shame there’s no chance of a local derby v posh in the next round 🤣
— John (@jjluya) August 13, 2019
Get in boys 👋👋
— 𝔈𝔡𝔴𝔞𝔯𝔡 (@lockwood_wayne) August 13, 2019
https://twitter.com/JoshCornwell9/status/1161428536399400966
Great win lads 💙💙
— Cameron 🕷️ (@rDuckyy_) August 13, 2019
