Bulls fight back toearn Trophy replay
“It was the best game we have played this season, not footballing-wise but in terms of physicality and battle,” Funk said.
“It was wonderful to see. We thoroughly deserved the draw.”
Hednesford, who play a division higher in the Northern Premier League, are due to host the replay on Tuesday night.
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Hide Ad“We proved we can compete with the likes of Hednesford and for every player it was again a massive learning curve,” added Funk.
“Today was the first time since we arrived in the Evo-Stik League that they have really expressed themselves in the way I want to see them play.”
Hednesford took an early lead when Sam Griffiths emphatically headed home a fifth-minute corner.
Phil Buxton levelled 13 minutes into the second period, heading a Brad Wells cross into the top corner.
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Hide AdJimmy Ghaichem went close to winning the tie for the home side, but he dragged a one-on-one effort wide.
Hednesford might have restored their lead when Lewis Archer struck the bar.
Bulls defender Jack Broadhead received a second yellow card late on, but the home side hung on to earn a replay.
AFC MANSFIELD XI: White, Marsden, Dudley, D’Laryea, Annable, Broadhead, Ghaichem, Buxton, K. Wells, Lindley, B. Wells. Unused subs: Guest, Dear, Wall, Burton, Dawes.