McAuley came through the youth ranks at the Abbey

Cambridge United defender Rory McAuley believes that the U's have emerged stronger following a disappointing start to the season.

They U's, who are 15th in the table, only lost out to Huddersfield in the FA Cup because of two injury-time goals.

McAuley told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire: "We went through a little bad spell and that helped us gel as a team and we're now eight unbeaten.

"As a team we're willing to work for each other and to help each other."

The U's forced a first round replay after holding Huddersfield to a 0-0 draw at the Abbey.

Every player wants to play at the highest level possible, and we definitely showed our best form over the two matches Cambridge defender Rory McAuley

They took the lead at the Galpharm through a McAuley header, but conceded twice in injury time to eventually lose 2-1.

Boss Martin Ling was handed a vote of confidence earlier in the season after a run of four straight league defeats.

The U's were unbeaten in six matches in all competitions prior to the Huddersfield match and McAuley says their performance has raised spirits further.

"We've gone against a League One team and proved we're good enough to match them," he said.

"Every player wants to play at the highest level possible, and we definitely showed our best form over the two matches."

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