Holloway thanks fans after winning start as Swindon Town boss

Ian Holloway marked his return to management in dramatic fashion, as his Swindon Town side came from behind to seal a 2-1 extra-time win against Colchester United in the FA Cup first Round.

Harry Anderson put the visitors ahead after 64 minutes at the Nigel Eady County Ground, before Holloway’s team rallied.

Substitute Joel McGregor struck to level the scores just moments after coming on, setting up extra time between the teams.

And Kabongo Tshimanga’s extra-time goal gave 61-year-old Holloway victory in his first game in charge.

The manager said: “Even if we had lost, I would have been delighted with the way the lads tried to do things.

"But to actually show the character to come back like we did and for everybody to give me what they did to keep going and we could even have won it before the end of the match.

"I was delighted for the players and for the fans. Thank you so much because you must have enjoyed what you saw because you were with us the whole way.

"We were trying to bring everyone together and bring some smiles back and if they play like that I think we will."

Holloway was appointed Swindon Town boss following the sacking of Mark Kennedy a week ago on Friday, having officially started in the role on Monday.

He added: “This was the maddest week that I have ever had and I think that I need an ice bath, go home and put my feet up.

"The excitement that I have got, which I haven't had for four years is quite incredible and it will come as no surprise that I have missed it.

"There is absolutely nothing like it. Even The Big Dipper at Blackpool is not as exhilarating as that.”

Next up for Town is a home game against Tottenham’s under-21s on Tuesday (7pm).

(Picture: Rob Noyes)