It Was A Dream Debut - Lucic

Thursday, September 22nd 2016

Ivan Lucic marked his Bristol City debut with a heroic penalty save that helped the Robins advance to the fourth round of the EFL Cup for the first time since 1989.

Lee Johnson handed the former Bayern Munich goalkeeper his first start since joining the club in the summer and the Austrian proved his worth with a string of fine saves.

Lucas Piano’s headed effort gifted Fulham an early lead before Aaron Wilbraham’s neat chip over the hosts’ goalkeeper levelled things up on the stroke of half-time.

Everyone’s eyes were then on Lucic in the second period as he palmed away Cauley Woodrow’s effort from the penalty spot, which initiated a dramatic City comeback as substitute Tammy Abraham poked home Callum O’Dowda’s cross in the last minute, securing the visitors a fourth round home tie with Premier League side Hull City.

“I think Fulham started the game better and unfortunately they got the first goal which I was nearly equal to, but that happens,” Lucic told Bristol City Player HD.

“The crowd were really good for both sides and it turned out to be a great evening.

“I saved the penalty, I made another couple of good saves and then Tammy (Abraham) scored the winner, so it was perfect.”

When quizzed about his unique technique to deny Woodrow from 12 yards, the City stopper confirmed penalties are an area of his game that he makes time for in training.

“I work hard on penalties with Tammy in training,” the 21-year-old added.

“My decision to take up a starting position left of the goal created a number of questions for him (Woodrow) and he didn’t know what to do. It turned out to be a good decision.

“I tried this technique once in training and Tammy failed to score so I thought, ‘why not try it tonight’.

“To win is unbelievable. I am delighted for all the fans that travelled from Bristol and I am really proud of the team and staff - it is a great day!”