Carshalton Athletic goalkeeper Matt Willard was the hero as the Robins marched into the second round of the Robert Dyas Ryman League Cup.

Willard, 18, both scored and saved a penalty during the dramatic shoot-out that followed an entertaining 1-1 draw against hosts Whyteleafe on Tuesday night.

The result also means Carshalton have emerged victorious twice on the road this season, a feat last repeated almost a calendar year ago.

“The dressing room was buzzing afterwards. We went out in the first round last season so this is an improvement,” said Willard.

“We felt we were by far the better team overall, but we must start being more clinical in front of goal.”

Leafe defender Nathan Daly scored against the run of play in the 26th minute, but he was brought back down to earth one minute after the restart as a Dean Hamlin clearance hit him and flew into his own net.

“Their goal was sloppy from our point of view, we should’ve dealt with the loose ball before their guy snuck onto it,” Willard added.

"But we discussed it at half-time and we were defensively tighter after the break.”

Ex-Leafe players Alex Penfold, Greg Andrews and Bentley Graham scored Carshalton’s first three penalties before Jordan Higgs had his effort saved.

Willard stepped up to keep his side in it before he tipped Courtney Ellis’ powerful strike onto the crossbar during sudden death.

“It was definitely more nerve wracking taking a penalty, but I felt confident enough to step up,” Willard said.

“I knew I’d saved their last one but, as I fell back to ground, I just hoped the ball didn’t hit me or the post and go in.”

The young goalkeeper has now played in all four of Carshalton’s opening fixtures and he is very much enjoying his football at the moment.

“Everyone played their part against Whyteleafe and I’m happy to be involved right now,” Willard said.

“Jack [Eden, goalkeeper] and I have a good relationship and we push each other to be better, but I’ll keep trying to do my best if selected.”

Carshalton’s next game is a league encounter against visiting Sittingbourne this Saturday (kick-off 3pm).