Russell Martin enjoyed watching his team dominate their way to victory over Bristol Rovers.
MK Dons made it back-to-back wins courtesy of a 2-0 triumph at the Memorial Stadium, as goals from Scott Fraser and Will Grigg, and a penalty save by Andrew Fisher, saw Martin’s men climb to 10th in the Sky Bet League One table.
“I loved it tonight,” the manager said in his post-match press conference. “We played with purpose, intensity, energy, fight, aggression - it means a lot to see us fighting that hard when there's not much to play for.
“We faced a different problem tonight, in the way they set up. They were so aggressive and committed a lot of people in the press.
“The guys are finally finding solutions on the pitch, rather than waiting until afterwards to learn from it – instead they're making brilliant decisions.
“We were against a team fighting for their lives, so we had to match that. I loved watching us when it got physical, but we more than matched it. We really wanted to win.
“We then had to show that quality to control the game. Being picky, we should score more goals but I don't think we ever felt uncomfortable.”
Martin added: “We want to finish as high as possible and we're on our way to that. I'm pleased with where we're heading.”
There were plenty of players worthy of praise after such a dominant display, but Martin had the opportunity to discuss the performances of goalscorer Will Grigg and goalkeeper Andrew Fisher in his post-match media interview, as well as wing-backs Ethan Laird and Matthew Sorinola, who caused the Bristol Rovers defence all sorts of problems on Tuesday.
“(Will Grigg) deserved the goal so I'm delighted it fell to him,” Martin said. “He’s really valuable to us.
“He contributes hugely and really suits what we do. He's brought into us and he's getting better with every game. He has stepped up, got an assist tonight, and then the goal he deserves.
“I'm really pleased Fish saved the penalty because we deserved a clean sheet. That’s also down to the keeping unit, working together.
“Ethan was such a threat and Matty was incredible tonight. They are two guys who are getting better all the time.
“It’s a shame we've only had (Ethan) for a short period. He's grown up a lot and I know his parent club are really happy with his development.
“Matty, for his age, is so defensively diligent - you always trust him. He's getting better going forward too, with his balance, his power - he's got all the attributes.”
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Russell Martin's MK Dons will look to secure a third straight Sky Bet League One victory when they take on Swindon Town this Saturday at Stadium MK.
Due to the Government’s Covid-19 restrictions, the fixture will take place behind closed doors but fans can still ensure they don't miss a minute of the action thanks to iFollow MK Dons.
Season Ticket holders have complimentary access to the match. You will simply need to log-in to your iFollow MK Dons to view the game - click HERE for full information!
All other supporters will be able to enjoy the game by purchasing an iFollow MK Dons Video Match pass - to purchase a £10 Video Match Pass, click HERE and select Buy A Video Match Pass!
