Paul Hurst happy to see Shrewsbury Town progress in Checkatrade Trophy
Town boss Paul Hurst was satisfied with Checkatrade Trophy progress - but questioned the attitude of his players as they left it late to spare blushes at Port Vale.
An awful opening to the round of 32 cup tie at Vale Park saw Hurst's side fall beyond inside a minute, only for two goals in the final 23 minutes to save Shrewsbury.
And the boss was left far from impressed with Town's first-half display, claiming that some players had done themselves little favours in catching the eye.
His side have made the last 16 and are now just three rounds from Wembley.
"We didn't perform in the first-half and got off to a dreadful start," said Hurst.
"It wasn't the happiest dressing room in the world to say we've just won a game.
"I'm banging my head against a brick wall, trying to stress the importance of the game and every opportunity you're given, whether that's staying or coming into the team.
"And it wasn't good enough first-half by a long shot. I'm looking for much, much better.
"It's not a league game, but we need to be up for these days and it didn't look like we were.
"I know there's hardly anyone here in comparison to a league game but you've got to find that motivation from within."
Hurst revealed he had a chat with No.2 Chris Doig and goalkeeper coach Danny Coyne after the game where motivation was questioned.
"Myself, Chris and Danny had a chat just then about our thoughts on it. It doesn't matter what we say or do, it has to come from within.
"I said to the players that I want them to win as much as I do and I genuinely question that at times.
"Some of them have certainly not done themselves any favours tonight.
"If we play anything like that against MK Dons we'll get thrashed."
