Cowan’s delight after ‘exasperating’ Shrewsbury Town penalty shoot-out win

Shrewsbury Town boss Gavin Cowan hailed his side’s “will to win” after their dramatic Carabao Cup shoot-out victory over Salford City.

Nine of the 16 penalties were missed, with four saved by Shrewsbury goalkeeper Will Brook, as Salop beat the Ammies 4-3 on spot-kicks to book a place in the second round.

Asked about Brook’s heroics, Cowan told the Shropshire Star: “That was brilliant, but I just wanted the other lads to score. It was quite exasperating to watch, really, wasn’t it?

“I just wanted them to stick it in the net. But, yes, we’ve come through a penalty shootout. It shows a really good mentality and a will to win.”

Shrewsbury now enter Monday night’s second-round draw, which sees the introduction of the 11 Premier League sides not participating in European competitions.

The Carabao Cup is regionalised until the third round, with the draw split into northern and southern sections.

“I’m always one of them that will just play the cards I am dealt,” Cowan said on the draw.

“I won’t be paying too much attention. We’ll just be receiving who we’re going to play, whether it’s home or away.

“I’d love a home draw against someone big for the fans, of course. But ultimately, we’ll wait to see what that looks like and we’ll prepare accordingly.”

Cowan’s focus has already shifted towards Town’s opening League Two game at Tranmere Rovers next Saturday.

“I’m on to the next game already,” he added. “It’s quite relentless.

“I’ve got to try and get some more players in. We’ve got to try and win the next game.

“I’ll try and have a little glass of wine tonight, maybe a beer, maybe both, and just try and enjoy it.”