Seven day break pleases Wilko

The 1-1 draw at the Reebok means the sides will replay at the Stadium of Light in ten days time to decide who goes through to the fourth round.

"We played much better in the second half and Kevin's goal was one of the best near-post headers you will see in this tournament," said Wilkinson.

"That goal got us the draw our performance deserved and we had our chances to win it which would have saved us another game.

"I would have liked to have put a better team out but in the event I couldn't do that.

"We have had four away games out of five in 14 days and I am pleased we have now got some space before our next game next Saturday.

"These days you do have to prioritise because the Premiership is so important."