Defender eager to maintain momentum with Oxford next
Paul Robinson said the victory against Carlisle showed there is great determination in the squad to maintain a superb run that stretches back to December.
With just one defeat in 10 games and seven wins out of eight, the Dons head into Saturday’s match against Oxford United with confidence high.
Robinson, who experienced promotion with Millwall in 2010 when he scored the winner at Wembley, knows that winning is all that matters at this critical stage of the season.
Speaking during an interview with Rob Cornell for Dons Player, Robinson said: “We had to stay strong against Carlisle. There were a few anxious moments and the manager admitted afterwards that it was horrible to watch in certain ways, but the ball stayed out of our net. It was down to some good defending, good goalkeeping and a bit of luck, but we will take the clean sheet and move onto Saturday.
“We have a great bunch of lads and there is a good atmosphere within the group. Since the Christmas period something seems to have clicked and we’ve got real momentum going. There is a real determination instilled in the dressing room. There is a really good team spirit, it’s always good when you win, and hopefully that will carry us forward.
“We have a really good run of games coming up and Oxford is another good one because they are a team just above us in the league. We will be looking to give a good account of ourselves and keep this run going. Perhaps we need to improve upon our performance levels, but hopefully we can have the same kind of result at the weekend.”
The back five has changed in recent weeks with 18-year-old Ryan Sweeney playing in front of on-loan goalkeeper Kelle Roos and Robinson was full of praise for the contributions of both players.
“Ryan has been first-class since he came into the team,” added Robinson. “He’s staked his claim for the jersey and is showing a maturity beyond his years. He has put in some good performances. Clean sheets are what defenders are paid for and what good teams are based on so long may that continue.
“Kelle commands his box really well. As defenders it’s a lovely feeling when you hear his big booming voice and he gathers the ball. It’s a relief and it lifts the pressure for that moment. Kelle has been a really good presence since coming in and he has done incredibly well.”
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