Dixon hails “brilliant” Spartans

Spartans defender Joel Dixon came off the bench and played his part in the impressive 4-1 FA Cup win over Conference side Altrincham. Braces from Dan Maguire and captain Robbie Dale saw Spartans into the draw for the second round with a performance former Frickley Athletic defender Dixon hailed as "brilliant".

"It was absolutely outstanding. I absolutely love being part of this team whether it's starting or coming off the bench, I love the group and to come off the bench and be part of that performance was brilliant"

Whilst the players and coaches take the credit for the on-pitch performance Dixon was quick to praise the performance in the stands as the Green Army had Croft Park rocking. In with the 1,763 in attendance were members of Dixon's family and the Yorkshireman described that as "special".

"The supporters are the reason we are here. We have had a number of away games and they have backed us in their numbers. They did it again today and it was amazing. I had my Dad, my Grandad and my brother here today and that was special. The supporters as a whole we brilliant and they helped us through today"

A noisy dressing room met Dixon as he was one of the last players in after the full time whistle and he described that scene that met him on arrival.

"The atmosphere in there is unreal and there are just people all over the place. The coaches, physios and the players are all buzzing and we are all delighted with a brilliant result"