Former Workington Reds defender Tyler Magliore helped Port Vale create a bit of FA Cup history last night.
Magliore started the delayed fourth round tie against Bristol City which ended in Vale reaching the fifth round for the first time in 30 years.
Magliore started and played until the 98th minute, into the first period of extra time, before being substituted – the last of six changes made by manager Jon Brady.
Ben Waine’s goal eight minutes from the end of extra time proved the winner against a Championship side 38 placers above them at the foot of League One.
Now Magliore can look forward to a fifth round home tie on Sunday against Premier League Sunderland.
Reds manager Billy Barr persuaded Magliore to play for Reds, get himself fit and ready for a return to league football after being released by Northampton Town.
He had looked a class act for the Cumbrians and although a Scottish Championship side had him on trial it was his former Northampton manager Jon Brady who made him an offer at Port Vale.
He made his debut a fortnight ago but then missed two games through injury before starting again in the Cup-tie.
“We are all delighted for him,” said Barr. “He always had the quality to get back into league football.”
Another recent member of the Workington Reds team in the NPL also experienced first team action last night higher up the football pyramid.
Striker Daniel Ogwuru was brought on by Morecambe in their National League game at Wealdstone after 77 minutes and helped them through to a priceless 3-2 win.
Ogwuru, who scored Morecambe’s emotional first goal after their delayed start to the season, had fallen out of favour and while on loan at Reds scored three goals in five games.
Mew Shrimps boss, Jim Bentley, clearly wanted a look and although he didn’t figure on Saturday off the bench, got a brief opportunity at Wealdstone.
Like the Reds, Morecambe are fighting a battle against relegation from the National League. Third bottom that win pushed them six points from safety ahead of Saturday’s trip to Sutton, who are nine points better off.
