Preston boss happy to progress in cup after shoot-out win over Hull City
North End defeated Hull City 5-4 on penalties, after the match had finished 2-2 after 90 minutes at Deepdale.
Paul Huntington and Josh Harrop had puts the hosts 2-0 up after only 25 minutes, but John Magennis pulled a goal back from the penalty spot.
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Hide AdNorth End then conceded with virtually the last kick of the game when Jarrod Bowen converted from close range to send the game to a shoot-out.
Goalkeeper Connor Ripley was the hero for PNE as he saved Tom Eaves' spot-kick - and it was left to Alan Browne to smash home the winning penalty.
"I thought first half, we were great and thoroughly deserved the 2-0 lead and pobably even more based on the play," Neil said.
"We didn't use the ball well enough, we didn't compete well enough in the second half," said Neil.
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Hide Ad"I had a discussion with the players after the 90 minutes. I said, 'Listen we have messed it up so the only way to fix it is to go and win the penalties'.
"I thought they showed good composure after a disappointing end to the game. To lose a goal that late, it's easy to let it affects you.
"I thought they were all brave stood up, stuck the ball away and Connor Ripley makes a very good save for us.
"I think all in all over the 90 minutes, I think we certainly deserved to go through.
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Hide Ad"Even in the second half when they had pressure, we had the clearer chances in the game to win comfortably."
Neil revealed that Tom Barkhuizen came off at half-time with a groin problem and is doubtful for this weekend's trip to Nottingham Forest in the Championship.