CARL Heeley praised his "magnificent" players after they flew the flag for the city and non-league football at League One side Sheffield United.

And the Worcester City joint manager also paid tribute to the opposition’s players and supporters for the ovation given to his side after the FA Cup first-round tie, which the Blades won 3-0.

He said: “We wanted to represent the club, the city and non-league football – and I think we did all those things.

“Sheffield United have been great hosts and we’ve all had a marvellous day out.

"The fact that they applauded us off the pitch shows the calibre of the club we have played against – it was a lovely gesture.

“It’s been fabulous and I couldn’t have asked anything more of the boys – they were magnificent.”

Two goals in the final nine minutes finally ended City’s cup dreams but the visitors also had chances to haul themselves level after falling behind to a first-half penalty.

“We were right in the game for 80 minutes but obviously the second goal killed us off,” Heeley added.

“But we were two inches away from an equaliser and if that goes in then who knows what might have happened? We gave it our best shot.

“We wanted to stay in the game for as long as we could and that first goal knocked us back.

"We were disappointed to concede but we never gave up and we were still in it with 10 minutes to go.

"We always looked a threat against a top side.

“The players are disappointed to be out of the competition but you have to look at just what we’ve achieved as a club. We have to kick on in the league now and I’m sure we will.”

Blades boss Nigel Adkins also praised City, who were cheered on throughout by 2,000 travelling supporters.

He said: “This was a game for Worcester to go and do well but thankfully we’ve got ourselves through the round.

“We did our homework on the opposition and gave them the respect they deserved and we gave their lads an ovation when they came off as I think that’s important as well.

"I was at Bangor City so I know what it’s like and how difficult it is.

“I’m really pleased we’ve scored three good goals – it was a good game. Their goalkeeper’s made some great saves, he’s probably pulled off four worldies.”