Ryan's delight

Goal hero Ryan Nelsen admitted there was a feeling of 'one of those nights' in the air at the Lane before he struck the crucial opening goal against Bolton in Tuesday night’s FA Cup quarter-final.

The central defender was the unlikely saviour in front of goal as he headed home Rafa van der Vaart’s corner in the 75th minute to finally get the better of Adam Bogdan in the Bolton goal.

Bogdan was inspirational for the visitors with a string of fine saves - 13 in total - as we completely dominated but couldn’t find a way through.

Indeed, the goalkeeper denied us four times in 10 minutes leading up to Ryan’s opener.

As the New Zealand captain explained, the relief was tangible in the stadium once his header hit the back of the net.

“I thought we played really well,” said Ryan.

“The forwards and midfielders were so creative, we made so many chances and sometimes in these games you think it’s going to be one of those nights when the ball doesn’t fall for you.

“Just about everyone else in the team had a shot or effort at goal that was brilliantly saved, so it was my turn!

“You could feel the relief from the fans and after that goal, everyone relaxed and we enjoyed the rest of the game.

“I just wanted to help out as much as I could when Harry brought me into the club and I’m delighted everyone can now have a great day out at Wembley.

“Personally, I’ve never played there. I’ve had a few semi-finals and played everywhere apart from Wembley, so I’m happy we’re there.”