Chorley boss Jamie Vermiglio looks forward to possible £500,000 FA Cup boost

The National League North side made light of the four-division gap between the sides as they beat the Championship outfit 2-0 on a freezing afternoon in Lancashire.

In theory it was a huge upset although, in reality, after a Covid-19 outbreak at the Rams left them without their entire first-team squad, the balance tipped in favour of the experienced part-timers.

Derby fielded a side made up from their youth sides with an average age of 19 and without a single game of first-team experience between them.

The difference proved too great and the sixth-tier side prevailed at Victory Park with goals from Connor Hall and Mike Calveley.

Vermiglio said: “I’m really proud of them and really pleased for the players who’ve put so much effort in this season. For a team who were bottom of National League North after four games with zero points, to get to round four is unbelievable.

“First and foremost, it’s the confidence it gives us – Chorley is on the map now and for us it’s a boost. We’re in the limelight and it’s good to be out there getting that publicity.