Liam Manning spoke of his immense pride in his players after their incredible 10-man comeback against the league leaders, Rotherham United.
Despite going a goal down and a man down to a Millers side who hadn’t lost at home since September, Manning’s Dons showed tremendous spirit to turn the game around and secure all three points thanks to goals from Harry Darling and Mo Eisa.
“That was extremely eventful!” Manning said in his post-match press conference. “They deserve it, though, I'm delighted for them.
“It was obviously not what we'd planned in terms of the penalty and the red card. In football, you will face challenges and things will get thrown at you that aren’t always on script.
“That’s where we have to be adaptable, flexible and stay focused and calm. That was pleasing about the guys - they didn't look flustered and didn't panic and that shows a level of ownership.
"I couldn't be prouder with how they dug in, how they stuck together and how they stay composed in those moments of chaos and moments of pressure.
“The big message at half-time was stay in the game, stay compact, don’t concede space, and don't give them anything through the middle.
“I always fancied us (to create chances) as we looked dangerous on the counter. The guys have got quality in and around the penalty box so, even down to 10, we remained a threat. It was a great header from Harry and a great finish from Mo, as well.”
Manning added: “I’m delighted for the guys. What you see today is the players delivering a performance and getting the result but there's so much work from the staff behind the scenes.
“We are fortunate at the Club that we have some really committed people who are honest, hungry and driven. Everybody is all - the staff and the players – we are all pulling in the same direction and I think that's really important.
“I’m delighted for the fans, as well. I thought they were outstanding today. The away following has been terrific this season and that is so important, especially when you're up against it with ten men away at the team that are top of the league.
“It was always going to be extremely difficult and that’s when you need the fans to drag you through and I thought they did that. A massive thank you from me, the players, the staff and the Club for the support.”
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Liam Manning's MK Dons will look to make it 10 games unbeaten on Tuesday evening when they take on Cheltenham Town at Stadium MK.
Tickets 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 book tickets CLICK HERE, visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 01908 622922. Tickets will be available to buy right up up until kick-off from the Box Office.