Millwall keeper apologises for FA Cup mistake – with Brighton’s Mat Ryan urging him to “come back stronger”

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

David Martin has apologised for his costly error in Millwall’s FA Cup exit on Sunday – but has got backing from Brighton counterpart Mat Ryan.

The Lions goalkeeper fumbled Solly March’s free-kick into his net in the final seconds to take the quarter-final tie into extra-time.

Brighton went on to win 5-4 on penalties after a gripping contest ended 2-2.

Martin, making only his second appearance of the season for the Lions, tweeted: “Gutted about what happened today [Sunday] and want to apologise to everyone at Millwall, the fans were superb as always and created an unbelievable atmosphere at The Den. 

“I’m so sorry I let you down and I will come back stronger.”

Ryan has urged the Millwall stopper not to let the setback affect him for the remainder of the Championship campaign. 

“I approached him after the game, it happens,” said the Australian international. “Just after half-time there was a mix-up between Shane [Duffy] and I, thankfully we mopped it up. 

“Unfortunately he looks at that one and thinks he probably could have done better. I told him that one moment does not define him. He was solid all game apart from that. 

“He seemed to have plenty of character himself. You have got to learn from your mistakes and see what you can do to not let it happen again. Aside from that he had a great game and I am sure he will be better for his experience.”