Gary Rowett believes the Brewers can head to Lancashire this weekend feeling proud of the performance shown against Fulham in the Capital One Cup at the Pirelli Stradium on Tuesday evening.
The hosts came within minutes of knocking out the Barclays Premier League outfit only to eventually lose out on penalties and the Brewers Manager was delighted by the character shown by his side on a memorable evening on and off the pitch.
‘I think the effort the lads put in, particularly the last 20 minutes and through extra time was absolutely phenomenal.Â
‘The reward came in the acknowledgement by Fulham that we did really well and gave them a tough game; it was a very proud evening.
‘It was an absolutely unique atmosphere I think. It’s one I would love to see us replicate again. There’s something special about evening games and the way the ground feels and the fans were absolutely magnificent.’
The performance of the squad has given Rowett food for thought ahead of Saturday’s trip to Accrington Stanley as the Brewers return to Sky Bet League 2 action.
‘The team will be a very difficult one to pick. What I have got to do is look at who is going to be able to give the same level of energy as Fulham.
‘We’ll have a look tomorrow, there are one or two who are a little bit sore but we’ve got players who are absolutely chomping at the bit to be a part of it.’
Competition is high in the ranks this season and the attitude of the players not currently in the team is something Rowett feels is important.
‘This weekend’s match is probably the hardest game so far to pick a starting eleven.
‘I know there are going to be two or three players disappointed and it is important they show the right reaction and they will get plenty of opportunities.’
Stanley, who have no fresh injury concerns, head into the game having lost their last three in all competitions; a recent record that sees James Beattie’s men bottom of the table and without a league win so far this campaign.
Despite this, Rowett is under no illusions that the hosts will be anything but a tough proposition at The Store First Stadium and it is his own side’s performance that remains of the upmost importance.
‘We need to play better than we did against Bury at home last Saturday and make sure we start well and maintain the kind of performance levels we showed away at Fleetwood, the second half at Cheltenham and the second half against Bury.
‘I’ve never had an easy game at Accrington. They might be bottom of the league but for me that’s not a true reflection on them. I’ve watched two or three games and they have had every chance of winning those games.
‘We need to make sure we don’t give them the opportunities to create their own luck.’ Â
Supporters not attending the game can follow all the action via the club’s Facebook and Twitter accounts with a full report available at the end of the match.