A LOAD OF COBBLERS

Match report from the Guardian:

The reality of this Cup upset may hardly make waves but the repercussions will invigorate a corner of the east Midlands for some time to come. For Northampton Town, the glitz and glamour of Manchester United await.

Defeating First Division opponents away from home was satisfaction enough but hosting the Premiership champions in the fourth round will inflate the Cobblers' coffers by as much as £400,000. Such dividends are rare in the basement but, on the basis of this polished display, they are thoroughly deserved.

"The financial gains are bigger than getting promotion," admitted the manager Colin Calderwood, aware that the last time Town hosted United they were beaten 8-2 with George Best scoring six.

"Georgie was offside six times. It'll be a wonderful occasion for the club but the players have achieved and now they've got a prize for their effort and endeavour. We had a freedom about us tonight."

United's chief scout Mick Brown, scribbling in the stand, will have been impressed at the visitors' slick, buzzing approach. On this evidence the Cobblers are under-achieving in the Third Division but they mustered the class and character to retrieve a deficit and prosper here against opponents who started 48 places above them on the League ladder.

Rotherham boss Ronnie Moore:

“That is the most gutless performance I’ve seen in my seven years here as manager. It was spineless, totally lacking in effort and desire and passion. We were playing a Third Division side — but we made them look like Real Madrid at times.

“My players have let themselves down so badly it’s untrue. Most unforgivable of all, they have taken away from me, our fans and our whole club the dream of playing against Manchester United. I wish I could get half of them out of the door.

“We said before the game not to have any regrets at the end but there are so many now. This is one of the worst moments in my entire footballing life. I’m totally gutted and our fans must feel the same way.”