MK Dons have kept three clean sheets in their last four matches, and defender Russell Martin knows that resilience must remain if they are to enjoy success this term.
The Dons had conceded in all-but-one of their 10 games prior to their shut-out at Newport County on February 12 but since that game, Tisdale’s men have conceded just twice, with one of those goals coming from the penalty spot.
Their defensive performances have played a pivotal role in their recent run of results and Martin hopes the form can continue through to the end of the season.
“It’s another clean sheet and it shows as a team that we are doing that side of the game,” the 33-year-old said after last Saturday’s 1-0 win over Crawley Town, which made it four straight wins for Martin & Co.
“I think we’ve got a good record in terms of goals against this season and that’s got to be a base for us to play off.
“We’ve gone back to basics as a defence. We’re looking to keep the ball out of the back of our net, with anything else going forward being a bonus. You’ve seen that mentality and hopefully, it continues.
“Credit to Stuart, he’s been fantastic since he’s come into the team. He pulled off a fantastic save [against Crawley] and you need that - he might need to help us out sometimes.
“I thought the front two were excellent. They pressed really high and gave us a platform to use. It makes such a difference when you have people at the front willing to work hard for us.
“Hesk [Jake Hesketh], for example. We know he is a lovely player but he’s done the other side of the game today.
“We’ve built a real resilience about us and that’s what you need in this league. It can’t always be attractive football, especially at this time of the season. Sometimes you have to dig in and do the unstylish stuff because it’s all about results.”
***
Russell Martin and MK Dons will look to stretch their winning run to five games when they take on Macclesfield Town at the Moss Rose this Saturday afternoon.
Tickets are available in both standing and seated areas, with prices starting from £15 adults, £12 seniors/under-25s, £6 under-18s and £3 under-12s. Full prices can be found below.
Official Away Travel is available for this fixture, with coach spaces priced at £21 Season Ticket holders/members and £22 all other supporters. Coaches will depart Stadium MK at 10.30am.
To book tickets/travel click HERE, visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 0333 200 5343. Tickets will be available to buy from MK Dons until 5pm on Friday 8th March. Please note, only terrace tickets will be available to buy online.
