Looking at the draw for the next round of the Capital One Cup there are no details as to how each team reached that stage. Like in all cup competitions it doesn't matter if you win by a huge margin or a penalty shoot-out, there is only one prize for your victory.
The competition itself is one I enjoy for reasons that are completely different to the others we try to win and pretty much all of them were on show Wednesday night.
Players who are just back from injury get a chance for match fitness and those involved in that competitive fight for places join a huge batch of our younger talent in the overall squad for the game. Throw in that cup-tie feel and atmosphere for a hugely entertaining package.
The unpredictability this leads to is clear to see but not knowing if we will win 4-0 or lose 4-0 just adds to the excitement.
Our huge away following made for a noisy old away end in a game that could have gone either way. Both sides had chances to win the game in normal and extra time but overall a draw was probably a fair result.
That of course, left the lottery of a penalty shoot-out to decide who progressed.
For me the first thing that went in our favour was where the action would unfold. Although actual viewing would be better, given the choice I would always want the shoot-out to take place in front of the opposing team's fans. This doesn't always work out but I just feel it puts a little bit more pressure on the opponent to succeed.
Who actually takes them is irrelevant as far as I am concerned but fatigue is something you do want to avoid I guess.
No matter how much you try, there is something nerve-wracking about the whole affair. I felt relatively calm and of course a little despondent when we were 3-1 down. Chuba's kick to reduce the deficit was to prove the crucial turning point.
West Brom missing their fourth certainly got the heart racing, even more so when the fifth went wide too. Then and only then do you realise you are one kick from victory.
Nacho stepped up, smashed it home and that late-night journey seemed nowhere near as daunting. Not quite 'into the hat' - as the draw had already been made - but a home tie with Chelsea is our prize.
Off to Wales next as we take on Swansea at the Liberty Stadium. Our group has chosen to stay overnight on this occasion so an entertaining 24 hours or so looks on the cards.
Our mighty yellow and blue army can help on that front of course!
Frank
@stubbsy70
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