NELSON boss Graham Howarth has spoken of his joy after his side won through to the semi-finals of the Division Two Trophy after beating the mighty FC United of Manchester.

In front of over 3,000 fans at Bury's Gigg Lane, Robbie Smith's 120th minute goal sent the Blues through in dramatic fashion.

But Howarth said he always knew his side were good enough to beat the high flying breakaway Manchester United side if they played to their potential.

He said: "We set our stall out to play a certain way, with three centre halves and our full backs pushing on, and it worked really well.

"The players did exactly what we asked of them and all credit to them. We got what we deserved in the end.

"I think the chairman was a bit miffed. He would have been rubbing his hands together at the prospect of a money-spinning replay, but we're just happy to be through."

Nelson had been beaten 5-0 and 3-1 by United this season but Howarth said Saturday's result would provide his side with a huge boost as they aim for promotion.

He added: "The 5-0 result flattered them and when we lost to them 3-1 at Stanley's ground, we didn't turn up for the first half.

"But on Saturday, we set out to get in their faces and play at a high tempo and that's what we did.

"In the past, I think we've shown them too much respect and maybe we've frozen a bit but we were superb on Saturday.

"That should give us all the confidence in the world for our big game against Winsford at the weekend."