Bury boss Dave McNabb is proud of his side’s FA Cup run - and is keen to build on that momentum going forward.

The Shakers consistently defied the odds but eventually missed out on a place in the first round proper by the slimmest of margins following a controversial defeat at Harborough Town.

McNabb admitted that it was tough to take but insists pushing for promotion is the main priority at Gigg Lane this season.

“It was two teams who you could see desperately wanted to win the game but also didn’t want to lose it,” he said.

“I have got zero doubt that we should have been talking about a draw and going back to Gigg Lane. The decision for the penalty was poor.

“I can’t get my head around how decisions for contacts, challenges and fouls which were exactly the same, the decision making was fundamentally different.

“I hate deflecting accountability when you have not won a game but it is never a penalty. Iyrwah (Gooden) has clearly made contact with the ball and it the direction has completely changed.

“We had one up the other end but I am not 10 0per cent convinced on that one. We are bitterly disappointed to exit the FA Cup, I thought we were by far the better side first half but they were better second half.”

The Shakers’ fixture list has been gruelling but the squad have had a bit of time to refresh ahead of Saturday’s trip to Chadderton in the FA Vase, with the Under-21 squad facing Abbey Hey last night.

“I am really proud of the players and everyone involved at the club,” the manager continued. “It has been a massive effort to get far, six away games all against higher opposition.

“It was a bridge too far with some of the things that went against us but we can’t feel sorry for ourselves.

“We have a week off, which is really pleasing. The lads will get some rest time and recovery sessions, then we go again on Saturday.”

The Bury boss has fond memories in the FA Vase, having won the competition with Warrington Rylands.

However, he knows the importance of Tuesday’s clash with Charnock Richard as the Shakers aim to build on an unbeaten start in the league.

“There is no doubt that our number one priority is the league, we have played 22 competitive games and seven friendlies in 12 or 13 weeks,” he explained.

“It is borderline ridiculous and people will think it is excuses, but the lads are tired and I think everyone can see that.

“They are getting in at midnight after a midweek game and getting up for work at five or six o’clock. It is tough but that is what we are here for, to play football.

“This week will be a bit of rest and getting them back to do some contact (training). Since the season started, Thursday training has been around trying to keep people fit, fresh and light tactical work.

“We will get some work done this week and then it is another big push towards the end of November when we go down to one game per week.”