Luton Town boss Richard Money was still in positive mood after his side went down to a narrow defeat in their play-off semi-final first-leg against York City at Bootham Crescent.
A last-minute goal from York hit-man Richard Brodie against the run of play was enough to separate the teams going into the return leg at Kenilworth Road on Easter Monday.
But Money hailed the efforts of his troops and remained confident that there was still plenty to play for.
“I’ve said to them in the dressing room if we play as well as that on Monday we’ll be happy,” he told Luton’s official website.
“Of course we’re disappointed. Brodie’s had one kick and scored and Shane Blackett’s made one mistake and it’s cost him.
“But we’ll rally and, like I say, we’re hoping for more of the same on Monday.”
York had earlier been indebted to a couple of great saves from their former Northern Ireland international keeper Michael Ingham to deny Keith Keane and Kevin Gallen.
Meanwhile, the lively Claude Gnapka also struck an upright for the visitors, with Luke Graham and Chris Carruthers close at the other end.
“It was a fantastic advert for the Blue Square and it would have graced League 1 in my opinion,” Money continued.
“After the result tonight York will fill their end at Kenilworth Road so it’s going to be a full house.
“We’re looking forward to it, it’s well in the balance.”
Join Vital York City
It’s easy to register simply click the link and enjoy getting involved
