James Beattie: Accrington passion overcame logic in Boro upset

Accrington boss James Beattie has revealed the pre-match mantra that helped to inspire his side to a League Cup first-round upset at Middlesbrough.

League Two Stanley came from a goal down to beat Boro of the Championship.

Beattie told BBC Radio Lancashire: "The last thing I said to them when they went out was 'passion overcomes logic'.

"I'm not saying that's motivated them to go and win the game, but I asked them afterwards what I'd said to them and they all answered me."

Lukas Jutkiewicz gave the home side an early lead, but goals from striker Marcus Carver, his first in professional football, and midfielder Piero Mingoia earned the Lancashire side a 2-1 win.

It also gave Beattie his first win as Stanley boss, with his managerial career having started with a 4-1 league defeat at promoted Newport three days earlier.

The former England striker added: "They're over the moon. I'm over the moon with them and it's all to do with their commitment and wanting to put things right from Saturday."

For Mingoia, scoring the winner at the Riverside Stadium was a sweet moment.

After being released by Watford in the summer, the 21-year-old was without a job until he signed a one-year contract at the Store First Stadium on 1 August.

"That sums up football for you," said Mingoia, who was making his first appearance since rejoining the Lancashire club following a loan spell last season.

"I didn't know what I was doing a few weeks ago and thankfully Accrington gave me a chance. I wanted to give them everything and show the trust they've shown in me."