Russell Martin praised an ‘excellent’ performance from his MK Dons side in their 2-0 victory over Bristol Rovers at Stadium MK.
Goals in each half from Ben Gladwin and Scott Fraser saw a dominant performance rewarded with three important points in the Dons’ final home game of 2020.
The result was enough to lift Russell Martin’s men up to 16th in the Sky Bet League One table and speaking afterwards, the manager was in understandably good spirits.
“Apart from the start of the first five minutes of the second half, we were excellent,” he told the media in his post-match press conference.
“It was a strong performance with a depleted squad - the guys who came in were outstanding.
“Our intensity and willingness to work harder than them and do the dirty stuff which allowed us to go and play football was really good.
“My only disappointment is that we didn't score more. In the second half, we had 14 chances in the box which tells you the story. We're still trying to find that mentality in front of goal.”
Martin added: “It was an important game for us because of previous results and it's not lost on me that it was against the previous manager too and the man who brought me to the club.
“This was a big win for us and we have to build on this now.”
Gladwin and Fraser were the match winners for the Dons on Boxing Day and both players drew praise from their boss afterwards.
“[Ben’s goal] was outstanding – we know he has that quality,” Martin said.
“It was nice to have him in the position where he really wants to be playing. He has been great at wing back for us but he sees himself in the middle. He needs to get back up to speed in that position, but he showed real glimpses.
“I'm really pleased for Ben and a goal that could have graced any game.”
Martin continued: “It was a really good goal from Scott too. He has asked to do more finishing work, and that has paid off.
“He is annoyed not to have more goals this season he's frustrated not to score more in this game but it's hard on that surface. For him to keep doing what he’s doing on that pitch is testament to him.”
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Russell Martin and MK Dons will look to make it back-to-back victories when they take on Swindon Town this Tuesday evening at the Energy Check County Ground.
Due to Government Covid-19 restrictions, the game will take place behind closed doors but fans will still be able to watch along courtesy of iFollow MK Dons - to purchase a £10 Video Match Pass, click HERE and select Buy A Video Match Pass!
