Russell Martin believes MK Dons’ battling point at Rotherham United was the best they have earned under his management.
Martin’s men came from behind at the AESSEAL New York Stadium to hold the Sky Bet League One leaders to a 1-1 draw – striker Rhys Healey securing the point with his sixth goal in seven games after Freddie Ladapo’s opener.
The Dons defended valiantly following Healey’s leveller and had chances, too, to snatch all three points. Martin, though, was more than happy with the one his team collected.
“It was a battling point and a brilliant point for us,” the boss said in his post-match press conference in South Yorkshire.
“Rotherham are a top of the league and are good at what they do. When they score first here, they usually go on to steamroll teams, but we limited them to very little - there were lots of ‘oh and ah’ moments, with balls flashing across goal and crosses raining in, but we defended superbly, to a man.
“It wasn’t as pretty a performance as we usually put in but the conditions played are part in that - it’s an extremely tight pitch here and it’s a difficult pitch to play on. As well, we were playing a team who had done a lot of work to stop us doing what we’re doing.
“We came up against something different but the players answered every question put to them. We played our usual game at times but we didn’t have as much control and possession as I’d have liked. We had to show a different side to our game.
“Every game in this league is different and every challenge is different. For us to come away with a point, in a different type of style, shows real big character and real big effort. I’m really pleased for the boys and I’m extremely proud of them too.”
Martin added: “I thought we might have nicked all three points at the end. Getting the win would have been the icing on the cake but I’m not going to be too greedy.
“These two away games this week were always going to be tough. We go into every game looking and expecting to win it but we had to be realistic with where we are.
“This was a tough test but we’ve shown, once again, we can compete with any team in this division so we’re delighted to come away with a point. I feel it’s the biggest point we’ve had since I took over.”
MK Dons gained their point in South Yorkshire despite being without the services of their captain, Dean Lewington, who was unavailable following the birth of his daughter, Lottie, late on Friday night.
“He still wanted to come and play!” Martin joked. “We’re delighted for him and Gemma on the birth of their second child – huge congratulations to them and I’m pleased the boys could get a point for their skipper.
“He’ll be back with us next week and I know he’ll be itching to come back in.”
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Russell Martin's MK Dons are back in Sky Bet League One action this weekend when they take on Doncaster Rovers at Stadium MK.
Tickets are priced at £22 adults, £17 seniors and £7 under-18s while under-12s go FREE with an accompanying adult. Supporters can upgrade to premium seats in the East Centre for a £5 premium while an upgrade to clubRed is just £10 more.
Club Dons members are entitled to £5 discount on the matchday price for 10 EFL games while Young Dons members can take advantage of a £1 discount on prices - why not use that discount for today's match?
To book tickets click HERE, visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 01908 622933. Tickets will be available to buy right up until kick-off from the Box Office.
