Johnnie Jackson was pleased to see our side come away with a clean sheet against Crewe Alexandra after what he described as a “tricky” week.
In the build-up to today’s game we saw Paris Maghoma and Ryley Towler head back to their parent clubs, whilst our captain, Alex Woodyard, was also sidelined through injury.
Our manager admitted that it disrupted our preparations but said we can be pleased with another shutout on the road.
“We had to adjust after being thrown a couple of curve balls,” said Johnnie. “Woody picked up a knock in the week and then Ryley and Paris were recalled. Sam Pearson only trained one day, so we went with what we had after the short time we had to work on things. He’s an exciting wide player who can play both sides and he’ll be a threat in the final third.
“I’m delighted with the clean sheet against a side who were in buoyant mood after their recent win. It was a scrappy game and the conditions didn’t help. It wasn’t a great spectacle but we take our point.
“It was nice to make two forward thinking substitutions today – I’ve not always had that luxury. The bench looked different but it was great to get Nathan (Young-Coombes) and Zach (Robinson) on the pitch.
“It felt like it was set up for us to come here and not get anything but we’ve put in a really solid performance. The lads were out there fighting and that’s what they’ll always do.”
Reflecting on a whirlwind week, Johnnie reserved praise for the two players that departed Plough Lane – with both having played a key role during the first-half of the campaign.
“It’s been a tricky week but we’re delighted to see Ryley get a move to a higher level with Portsmouth. It’s a good move for his career and the boy was unbelievable for us, you couldn’t find a nicer kid. Paris probably wouldn’t have been involved in this game but again he’s been an important player for the football club.
“On the other hand we are gutted. It was unexpected as the dialogue we had with both clubs seemed to suggest that they were really happy with their progression and how things were going.
“It’s testament to the club that we’ve helped those lads with their development with the work that we’ve done. They’ve done so well that teams from higher up are coming in for them. It’s bittersweet.”
PICS: Paul Thompson (Pro Sports Images)