Town manager Joe Royle admitted after the game that he was about to replace goalscorer Darren Bent when the front man netted the Blues' winner against West Ham.

Royle felt things weren't going the England U21 striker's way: "I didn't think it was Darren's day. He's had a traumatic week and I didn't think he was there today.

"But he was johnny on the spot - and well done to Richard Naylor, who hit the target and gave him the chance.

"Darren is a fit, fast young boy - and he'll actually be more of a threat away from home. I don't mind the second leg being away.

"We've got the all-important goal and I think we deserve it on our second-half display."

Goalscorer Bent was not aware he was about to be taken off prior to his goal: "I could see someone warming up but obviously I tried to concentrate and keep going, so I'm delighted to score.

"The gaffer showed faith in me today and I'm glad I've repaid him with a goal."

Central defender John McGreal was pleased with the 1-0 win: "I'm delighted with the result.

"A lot of people have written us off but it was a good team performance today and hopefully we can continue on Tuesday.

"All season we've not sat on a 1-0 lead, we've always tried to get a second goal - but a lot of the experienced lads said 'sit tight' for five minutes - we'll settle for 1-0.

"But we've got goals throughout the team and as long as we keep it tight at the back we'll always score."

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