Wanderers boss Gareth Ainsworth hailed his players for their second half display as his Wycombe side came from behind to beat Leatherhead 3-1 in the FA Cup second round at Adams Park.

Jack Midson had given Leatherhead the lead after eight minutes with a contentious penalty but Sam Saunders levelled with a wonderful free kick before late goals from Craig Mackail-Smith and Adebayo Akinfenwa sealed victory.

In between the second and third goals, Sammy Moore was sent off for the visitors and Ainsworth concurred that it was a very tough game for his side.

He said: "Second half there was only one team in it and that was us.

"It took me to get to half-time level, which believe me was tough, because at the start that was a real cup tie.

"The fans that Leatherhead bought, the off the ball stuff, the penalty, it became an emotional, highly-charged atmosphere in the first half and it was difficult to get to grips with some of their midfield play which is huge credit to them.

"At half-time we got some messages on and got the mental stuff and second half there was only one side in it.

"The sending off obviously helped but at the end of the day we felt pretty comfy second half.

"Massive credit to Leatherhead. You can see why they have got here with that first half performance and they could have had a couple more.

"I have some friends in the Leatherhead side and I wish them all the best in the league but I am glad we are in the hat for the third round."

Leatherhead's penatly was a hugely controversial moment early on. Referee Tim Robinson pointed to the spot, despite no protests from the Leatherhead players and Ainsworth was baffled as to why it was awarded.

He added: "I have no opinion on it because I can't understand why it has been given.

"I don't want to say too much more than as it could get me in trouble.

"It gave them a real leg-up and gave them confidence but fortunately Sam Saunders' goal was vitally important and it allowed us to dictate the game in the second half."

After that early scare, the experienced players came to the fore and Ainsworth explained that the balance in the team is crucial with that mixture of youth and the older heads.

"I keep saying there are goals in this team and we balance it out with the older players, who have a few more days off and carry more knocks now and again," added the Wycombe boss.

"The likes of Saunders, Mackail-Smith and Akinfenwa have all played at a higher level and you can see why.

"The energy in all the boys was fantastic and I am really pleased with the result."