Liam Manning praised his side’s resilience, toughness and togetherness after their 2-1 victory over Lincoln City at Stadium MK.
Just as they did on Boxing Day against the Imps, MK Dons came from behind to secure all three points thanks to goals either side of half-time from defenders Harry Darling and Warren O’Hora.
It wasn’t the Dons’ best performance of the season but Manning was pleased that his team still found a way to victory – one that has lifted them up to third in the Sky Bet League One table.
“It was a really tough game and it was not the sort of game we're often associated with but we showed resilience, togetherness and toughness, and we found a way to win,” Manning said in his post-match press conference.
“They started well, and we were sloppy. The pitch hurts the way we want to play but that's not an excuse. The guys know their level and know they can play better than that so I don't need to tell them (at half-time).
‘We’ve seen the group bounce back again and again, and we showed that response and will to fight again. We tried to tweak it a bit for the second half and it worked - we started really well.
“We've defend well after that. We probably soaked up too much pressure but we looked strong, compact, we dealt with set-pieces well and Jamie (Cumming) took the crosses. Apart from them hitting the bar, I don't remember many chances.
Manning added: “I'm delighted with so many aspects of the game but also disappointed with certain elements too.
“We're in a good spot but we cant take our eyes off it. We're going to need the whole squad. We've got six games in four weeks in February and people will have to step up when we need them.”
Here is what else Liam Manning had to say In his post-match press conference…
On the scorers…
“I'm delighted for the guys. Everyone was in a state of shock that Woz had scored! They joke about getting more goals but it's great to have more people contributing. For me, the centre backs should be getting four or five a season so I'm delighted for the two of them.”
On Conor Coventry’s performance…
“Conor showed what he's about today - he had a really good game. He broke up play and kept it simple and that helped the team, kept us ticking and helped us control the game, control second balls.”
On Troy Parrott’s performance…
“Troy has had to be patient for his chance but he played a massive part today. He showed a level of energy and intensity and he looked sharp. The challenge for him is to keep that going.
“People forget Troy is still developing. He's so young. He burst onto the scene and when that happens, the level of pressure and expectation goes through the roof.
“I speak to him all the time, we're always talking to all of them about their levels of performance. He's in a good spot now but he has to keep at this level and recognise why he's playing well and reflect to continue doing that.”
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Liam Manning and MK Dons travel to Fleetwood Town on Tuesday evening looking to secure a fourth straight Sky Bet League One victory.
Tickets are available to buy both online and from the Box Office, priced at £24 adults, £19 over-65s/under-25s and £8 under-16s while under-5s go FREE.
To book tickets/travel CLICK HERE, visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 01908 622933. Tickets will be available to buy from the Club until midday on Tuesday while they can also be bought on the night at Highbury Stadium.
Can't make the trip? Watch the game LIVE on iFollow MK Dons - CLICK HERE to purchase a Video Match Pass!
