Dec 02, 2010
Jake Cottrell has been voted E.ON Player of the Round after his stunning left-foot strike helped FC United of Manchester beat Rochdale 3-2 at Spotland in the FA Cup first round.
Nick Platt had already given Karl Marginson’s side the lead when former Heywood St James star pupil Cottrell stepped up to smash a wonderful effort past the helpless Josh Lillis.
Mike Norton’s last-minute winner set up a second round tie against Gus Poyet’s Brighton and Hove Albion, which ended in a 1-1 draw on Saturday.
Cottrell and FC United will get another chance to make it through to the third round – where they would face Championship side Portsmouth – when Brighton travel to Gigg Lane for the replay on Wednesday, December 8.
"It’s a real honour and I’d like to say thank you to everyone who voted for me. Hopefully, we’ll be able to produce more of the same in the replay against Brighton," said Cottrell.
The midfielder signed for FC United after being spotted playing at North West Counties level with Oldham Town.
"There’s a big difference in the standard from Oldham, both player and fitness-wise.
"It helped to get to know the team by watching for a few games and then I had to show what I could do once I got my chance."
The Manchester United supporter says of his time so far with FC: "I’ve really enjoyed it all so far. Margy talks to us like one of the lads and so you can get to know him. We have a good laugh in training.
"I like playing here with the fans and the great atmosphere. I’d certainly like to progress up the divisions in non-league, ideally with FC."
Cottrell doesn’t have a particular career in mind off the pitch as yet. He currently works for a company called Coleman’s doing admin in an office near Old Trafford but can be forgiven for having his mind on things other than work and football just now.
"I haven’t got a clue about work at the minute, Im just trying to get a wage in. I’ve just had a baby on New Year’s Day, a little boy.
"He’s good, he’s doing well. He doesn’t wake me up too much so I don’t mind. He’s keeping me busy and I’ll have him kicking a ball soon."
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