Dagenham boss Ben Strevens delighted to make another FA Cup memory at Crewe

Posted Sunday, November 03, 2024 by PA

Mornflake Stadium proved again to be giant-killing territory for Ben Strevens as he celebrated Dagenham & Redbridge’s FA Cup success at Crewe with his family at the final whistle.

Daggers boss Ben Strevens once hit a winner from the penalty spot for Eastleigh in an FA Cup tie at Crewe in 2015.

Just like the first-round tie nine years ago, the Vanarama National League side’s winner came from the spot as leading scorer Dion Pereira converted in the 73rd minuted when home goalkeeper Filip Marschall brought down Josh Umerah with the striker bearing down on goal.

“We had to defend really well, but we were dangerous with our counter attacks,” said Strevens.

“We had good moments in the first half, but we were under a lot of pressure in the second half.

“These are the moments you do it for. You very seldom get those amazing moments at the end of the game. I had my two boys and my dad over there with our fans and I was so happy to go over and see them.

“I’ve had some good times here and I want to give something back. Our chairman Dan (Hall) was on the pitch with his wife and this is the reason why he has come into the football club for days like this.”

The Daggers took the game to Crewe with Junior Morias forcing a save out of Marschall and Pereira screwing a good chance wide.

Pereira was wasteful again after the break when he drove wide after being put clear.

Owen Lunt miskicked in front of goal for Crewe, who piled on the pressure in the second half when goalkeeper Justham thwarted Max Conway and Kian Breckin.

However, Pereira made it count from the spot as Strevens’ men booked their place in the second round.

Crewe boss Lee Bell admitted: “Dagenham were worthy winners for how they played in the first half and the way they defended in the second. Our decision-making was poor in both boxes.”