Liam Manning hailed the character of the MK Dons squad following their stunning comeback at Lincoln City on Boxing Day.
Manning’s Dons scored three times in the final half an hour of Sunday’s clash at the LNER Stadium as they fought back from two goals down to secure a fourth away league win in five games.
“The group showed character and resilience,” Head Coach Manning said in his post-match press conference. “We're delighted with the response and the win.
“The first half wasn't to the level we have come to expect. We started too slowly, we were sloppy and we lacked discipline and intent. (Conceding twice) can happen at this level when you start like that.
“The first half was tough - stood on the touchline, it's not easy when we're so emotionally invested. It was a difficult time but that's why half-time was key.
“I was really disappointed with the first half and made that clear at half time but we have quality in our team and we showed that in the second half.
“We knew if we got one back we'd raise tension and be able to get on the front foot. Momentum is massive. In the second, we had more intent and that was the biggest difference.
“(My message at 2-2) was go for it! The biggest thing from there was not to lose the game, but if we have intent to achieve something this season we have to win matches and we showed the right response.”
Manning added: “It's a nice way to win a match.”
Here is what else Liam Manning had to say in his post-match press conference…
On Josh McEachran’s performance…
“In the second half, he played a big role. He got hold of the ball, got us on the front foot and took on responsibility. Josh has physically improved a lot since we got here and he's getting close to the level we know he can play.”
On starting games better…
“We have to stop it happening again. We have to start games like we did in the second half. The good thing is that we can go again on Wednesday.”
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Liam Manning's MK Dons are back in Stadium MK action on New Year's Day when they take on Gillingham at Stadium MK.
Tickets are priced from are priced from £22 adults, £17 over-65s and £7 under-18s while under-12s go FREE. Upgrades are available to East Centre and West Centre.
To purchase tickets CLICK HERE, visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 01908 622933.
