Mat Mitchel-King has told Crewe Alex Player that last night's Carling cup-tie against Ipswich was played in the best atmosphere he has played in at Gresty Road. The former Histon defender was called into action earlier than he would have anticipated last night when Matt Tootle was forced off in the first half with a hamstring injury.

Mat Mitchel-King played in an unfamiliar right-back role and settled into the game and the occasion very easily indeed. It was his first involvement with the first-team this season after losing his place at centre-back to new recruit David Artell.

Mitchel-King admits that the crowd helped the Railwaymen continue to press forward and defend against another Championship side.

Mitch told us: "I came on towards the end of the first team but before the game and during the game you could sense that there was a real buzz around the place. The supporters were well up for it and that helped us as players.

"They really got behind us and helped us and I think when we went into extra-time we were playing on the adrenaline they were creating. I don't think we were tired but we will feel tired today!

"The fans were brilliant. They made so much noise that I couldn't hear the orders being barked out from the touchline and we can only thank them for their support.

"You could really feel their presence last night and even when we went a goal down, they really lifted us and we went on to create one or two more good chances.

"That was the best atmosphere I've played in front of at Gresty Road. Although we have lost and gone out, I still regard it as a very good night and one I will never forget."

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