HAMPTON & Richmond boss Mel Gwinnett thought his side were rewarded for refusing to give up against Southend United.

Hampton fought back from 2-0 down to win the third round FA Trophy tie on penalties.

And Gwinnett felt the win was down to a never say die attitude.

“We never give up hope and we’ve got good players,” Gwinnett told the club’s Twitter account.

“But when you’ve got someone like Rob Hall on the ball, his delivery from set pieces is fantastic.

“It’s basically almost worth a goal a game and it was a fantastic delivery.

“It’s unfortunate for the lad (Gus Scott-Morriss) and I feel sorry for him but we earned the goal and all credit to us.”

Gwinnett’s side went on to win the tie 4-2 on penalties.

But he was also keen to give Blues praise.

“It was a great game of football and I think they’re a really, really good team,” said Gwinnett.

“If it wasn’t for the 10 points deducted they would be in the play-offs and they did exceptionally well against us.

“They played well and created chances but our boys defended resolutely.

“We managed to get two late goals and take it to penalties.”