Luton’s three Lions roar

Striker Matthew Barnes-Homer scored the only goal on seven minutes and Fairclough said: “What a good finish.

“That’s why they paid a lot of money for him and hopefully that quality will pay off for Luton.

“Matthew Barnes-Homer was the lone striker and did exceptionally well.

“Amari Morgan-Smith the same and Jake Howells was outstanding.

“The trick with that was to play him up top as we knew we’d get what he’s been doing week in week out for Luton by doubling up.

“We weren’t meant to win this game.”

A crowd of over 2,000 turned up at Kenilworth Road on the evening and Fairclough, who hinted that the final could be played in Bedfordshire, was delighted with the reception his side got.

He added: “We wanted to bring the game to Luton, I wanted the game here because I’ve come to Luton games.

“They’ve got a great crowd and we were rewarded with a good local support from the locals here.

“It was great to see the kids here too and I believe had England not been on telly we would have doubled the crowd.

“But it was fantastic support from those people who decided to come and watch this England team close up rather than sit down on the sofa and watch the other England team.”