MATT HEYWOOD proved important at both ends of the field as he kept Hartlepool at bay and made absolutely sure of Town's place in round two with his late header.

The central defender was rested by Roy Evans earlier in the season.

Heywood himself made it quite clear that he didn't feel in need of a spell on the bench but he has bounced back to cement a place in the side and send a strong message to Roy Evans.

Heywood loves a battle and few opposition strikers have got the better of him in the air this season.

Teams can pump as many long balls forward as they like and the chances are that Heywood will be on the end of at least 80 per cent of them.

He is not blessed with pace but just slides a leg in at the right time.

He is not afraid to go in where it hurts and you won't find him shirking the 50-50 ball.

After arriving from Burnley last year, he was helped by his 'mentor' Alan Reeves but Heywood no longer needs to be guided by anyone.

The former Burnley man is the model of consistency.

If he does make a rare mistake, he won't stand and sulk like some pro's are prone to do.

He is a no-nonsense 'roll your sleeves up and get on with it' merchant.

His goal against Hartlepool showed he can be a force in attack and if there is one area where he could improve his game then it is at set pieces.

More goals please Mr Heywood.