Our manager saluted his side’s resolve as we came away as deserved 2-1 winners against Rochdale.
Coming into the game off the back of a disappointing defeat, the pressure and stakes were high but our squad stood up to the challenge and got their rewards for riding out an early spell for the hosts.
Goals either side of the break from Ayoub Assal and Josh Davison brought new found confidence on and off the field, thanks to victory at the Crown Oil Stadium.
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“It’s really important (that we build on this),” said Johnnie. “I just told the lads in the changing room to enjoy the win but not to get too high. There’s another game in three days. We’ve had good meetings in training and I can feel the unity amongst the group. We’re going to need it in every game.
“First and foremost, I was pleased with the victory, but I was also delighted with the shift my lads put in today off the back of a tricky run. I hope that this can be the start of a really positive run.”
Assal’s goal was not only crucial but also well-taken as he flicked the ball over the onrushing keeper. It understandably earnt our number 10 praise from the gaffer, alongside our other goal scorer Josh Davison, who found the net via a more direct approach.
“It was a really tidy finish from Ayoub. We’ve been working on him and making sure that he makes those runs. He took it really well and it was good play from Woody to create the opening.
“It was a different type of goal (for the second). We know that we can play that way with Josh. It doesn’t always have to be neat and pretty. He can make any mediocre ball over the top a good one because he has the desire and the willingness to chase it. It’s something we’re aware of and something we look to utilise. Once the ball bounced, he sniffed blood.”
Johnnie also reserved special praise for our club captain Alex Woodyard, who made his first start of the season after fighting his way back from long-term injury. The midfielder slotted in nicely alongside Ryley Towler as part of a formation change to a 4-4-1-1.
“He was magnificent,” added our manager. “I don’t like to pick out individual players, but I felt like we had to give him some credit in the changing room. He’s been out a long time and is obviously an important player for us. He brings everyone together.
“I think it (the formation change) worked well. We always look at what we can do better. We just felt that it was the way to go for this game. Injuries and suspensions also made things difficult.”
PICS: Simon Davies (Pro Sports Images)