‘We fought so hard and we left everything on the pitch’

“As the captain I was so proud of my team on Saturday,” he said. “We fought so hard throughout the whole game and left everything on the pitch.

“The team spirit that we have grown at the club is what makes us a strong side. We all stuck to our jobs and defended well against a top League Two side who passed the ball well throughout the match.

“After the game their manager said we were the toughest side they have faced at home this season which is a great compliment. He also said that we were heroic and a team that would fight for each other.”

The Hemel skipper led by example once again on Saturday, and admits it was a devastating blow when Bury snatched the win late on.

“We felt good and felt that we were going to hold on and gain a replay,” said Parkes.

“At 83 minutes I looked at the clock and thought 10 more minutes of hard work and we will do this.

“It was devastating that the ball managed to drop to one of their players in the box on the 88th minute – I think there was about four of us lying in the net when it went in, which shows how much we were desperate to get the replay.

“Unfortunately it wasn’t our day. To finish 3-1 was harsh on us as once it went 2-1 we threw everyone forward to try and nick the equaliser and they caught us on the break.”

At the time the Gazette went to press, Hemel were preparing to return to Conference South action against Bromley, and Parkes says the team are now ready to embark on a winning run in the league.

“The team spirit is high and we are confident after the weekend so hopefully we can bring this form into the league,” he said.

“We have a few games in hand and if we can get a run together then we will start to climb up the table. We are aiming for the playoffs and don’t feel that it’s out of our reach.”