MAN of the match Brad Friedel was quick to play down his impressive role in Rovers' Worthington Cup success.

The American goalkeeper pulled off three stunning world class saves to keep out Spurs, with former England striker Les Ferdinand the man denied on each occasion.

But modest Friedel refused to take the glory afterwards, pointing instead to the huge parts his team-mates played in securing the club's first major knock-out trophy since 1928.

"We might have hit a dodgy patch in the league but we all came together here," said the inspirational shot-stopper.

"Man of the match awards are very nice to get but it's a team game.

"I think I have had effective games throughout my career. I had one here on a big occasion but so did Mark Hughes, so did Henning Berg, Matt Jansen and Andy Cole and every other member of the team."

One of his most stunning saves came in the 19th minute with the game still goalless when Ferdinand was left one-on-one but he did just enough to get a touch on the ball and thwart the Spurs striker.

"I just stood my ground, and as a keeper, you hope the player tries to dribble it around you and that gives you a little bit of a chance.

"If things like that happen around ten times, five they'll score and five you save.

"I was aware it could end up as a penalty but you can't play like that. I think I am at a disadvantage in that situation anyway and you have to do what you think is best."

Friedel admitted he thought Rovers' name might be on the cup the longer the afternoon panned out.

"I thought when Poyet hit the post it was going to be one of those days for us.

"Les has been an outstanding player over the years and will be for however long he plays.

"He is a big threat and that is a tribute to him, he is never easy to play against and we were fortunate to come out on top."

Friedel has now completed a hat-trick of Cups after similar success in Turkey and America and he showed his joy by racing from one end of the pitch to the other at the final whistle.

"Goalkeepers aren't meant to be able to run that far," he laughed.

"When you win something you don't know how you react, it's just what you do. I would probably do it different next time if there is a next time. You just enjoy yourself.

"I've had a few good moments in my career. I've played in two World Cups and at two Olympics and that's a very big honour.

"But this is special for different reasons and they often say the most special memory in your career is always the most recent."