Russell Martin had mixed emotions after MK Dons’ 3-1 victory over Fleetwood Town – happy with the result, but disappointed with the way in which is side saw the game out.
The Dons did enough to secure their third win in four matches, largely thanks to a 27-minute hat-trick from Joe Mason but also because of several fantastic saves from goalkeeper Andrew Fisher during a less than convincing second half.
“We've done enough to win the game but we all know it wasn't good enough,” boss Martin told the media following the final whistle on Tuesday.
“We scored three top drawer goals in the first half. I was really pleased by what I saw in the first half, against a good Fleetwood side. We should have got more - Cammy should have scored with a big chance and then, at 4-0, we could have enjoyed the second half a lot more.
“We spoke at half time about showing the same intensity but with a bit more composure, but, I'll be honest, I didn't like the second half one bit - not one bit.
“There are mitigating circumstances. The pitch doesn't help us, we've had a lot of people play a lot of football recently, and we’ve got people coming back from injury. We've also got a lot of young players on the bench because we're low on numbers.
“But, we weren't connected, we weren't as intense as we should be and we didn't play for each other as we should. I saw too much I didn't like and Andrew Fisher had to make too many saves.
“I should be waxing lyrical about a 3-1 win but I don't get emotional about results, more about performances, and too much of the second half I didn't like.”
Martin added: “Ultimately, I'm happy with three points. There have been too many times we've played brilliantly and not got what we deserved, so tonight, when we weren't brilliant but we've won - that has to be a pleasing factor for me.”
“Whenever these players are questioned, or after a bad result, they usually bounce back well and I'm pleased they’ve done that again.
“It was a tough game, and maybe one too many physically for some of them against a very good Fleetwood team, so I’m really pleased to come through it.
“We've now got a week to get people fit and to bring new players into the club.”
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Russell Martin's MK Dons return to action this coming Tuesday evening when they take on Charlton Athletic at Stadium MK, looking to secure their third home win in succesion.
Due to the Government’s Covid-19 restrictions, the match 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 will be able to watch the match for FREE. 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.
