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After seeing his side succumb to two early goals from striker Alan Radford and full back Dave Swainston sent off at Queensgate on Saturday Dolby pronounced himself reasonably satisfied with the outcome.

“It was a good result at the finish – I’d have certainly settled for it at half time. We were outplayed for the first 20 minutes – we didn’t start the game at all and I think nerves must have been to blame – we just froze. Bridlington played tremendously well and we desperately needed a spark from somewhere. Then Martin Devaney scored a tremendous goal and that got us back in it.

“After that our commitment was fantastic – and that’s what we’re going to need next week. I’m expecting one hell of a battle but we’re not going to take 20 minutes to start at the Moat, we’re going to start right from the kick off.”

Dolby refused to be drawn into criticism of Sheffield referee Brian Coddlington, saying only: “I thought Dave Swainston was very unfortunate to get sent off in very intimidating circumstances. It just didn’t warrant it.”

The Rovers boss was quick to praise his team’s defensive performance in the second half but said: “There were some very good performances – but only after the first 20 minutes. After we scored – tremendous. But before – one or two people have got to look at themselves.”

Meanwhile, assistant manager Malc Campion issued an “it’s only half-time” reminder saying: “Even though we were down to 10 men I thought we out-competed in the second half.”

Bridlington chairman Charlie Dunn admitted his team’s performance had been a disappointment, saying: “We were doing very well at 2-0, then they got a wonderful goal to get back in it. After that the game went very flat. I’m quite happy with the result, though. We played below par and I know we can play a lot better. I’m sure Gresley can too and it makes for a great game on Saturday. I said before the game the team that won today would win the tie, though, and I still think that.”