Assistant manager Dave Bassett praised the attitude of the players after Tuesday's JPT exit at the hands of Bury - but said United had paid a price for sleeping at two set-plays.

As with the Carlisle defeat 11 days ago, United were undone by two corner kicks against Bury on Tuesday night as the League Two side edged into the Area semi-finals thanks to a 2-1 victory.

Leon Constantine had fired United ahead with his first goal for the club, but Bury hit back twice, Filipe Da Costa was shown a straight red card, and despite dominating the second period, the visitors held on to clinch the win.

"We started well and, got the goal but unfortunately we defended two corners poorly and they managed to score," said the assistant boss. 

"That was disappointing because we pride ourselves on not conceding goals like that. We did it at Carlisle and we have to improve in that department.

"When Filipe got sent off and we went down to 10 men it gave us more of a mountain, but in the second half we did everything possible. We had 19 efforts - they had five.

"Their keeper made some good saves we had a few off-target. If we'd have been more clinical it would have helped. It just wasn't to be.

"There were a lot of of plusses. We played well in second half, and we just needed a goal. Even in defeat you can't ask for any more. The attitude of the players was top notch."

There were full debuts for Constantine, Da Costa, and Irish full-back Simon Madden against Bury, and Dave was quick to praise the young players for their performances.

"Simon Madden had a terrific debut and did extremely well," said Dave. "And Jonny Howson was outstanding.

"We had a lot of young players with Huntington, Howson, Madden, and Ben (Parker) who gave another good performance.

"If we'd have had 11 men we might have done it. Bury rode their luck but they are through and best of luck to them now."

Da Costa is now facing a suspension following his dismissal shortly before half-time.

"I'm told the tackle was dangerous and was a red card so there's no complaints," added Dave. 

"He's distraught is the kid - he's not like that. But if you do that you get sent off, and he gave the boys an uphill task."