Jack Tucker says Saturday’s result and performance was ‘needed’ but knows there is still a lot of work left to do.
MK Dons returned to winning ways in Sky Bet League One courtesy of a 1-0 victory over Cambridge United at Stadium MK – a result which lifts them three points clear of the U’s and to within two points of safety.
“It's what we needed,” Tucker said in his post-match interview with the media.
“We knew the result would be the most important thing - it was never going to be the prettiest, two teams dying for points at this stage of the season, but fortunately we got the first goal through Mo (Eisa), and then we dug in well.
“Questions have rightly been asked of us at some stages this season - when times have got tough, have we got it in us to dig in and get through the scrappy games? Today, I feel we answered some of those questions.
“There is a long way to go and we're not getting carried away. We know we’ve got to do it for another ten games but this is a good starting block and it should give us the confidence that we can win ugly, because I think that's how a lot of the games will go between now and the rest of the season.”
Saturday’s shut-out was the Dons’ first since the 2-0 victory over Bristol Rovers back on 4 February and only their third clean-sheet since the turn of the year.
“Rightly so (we’ve been criticised) because we've conceded too many goals,” Tucker said. “We can't sit there and feel sorry for ourselves, we have to work hard and do the basics better.
“I think we did that (on Saturday) – we defended with our lives and kept it out of the net.”
The MK Dons number 4 also reserved a mention to the home supporters for their backing throughout Saturday’s game at Stadium MK.
“It has been tough for the fans, and we're really thankful for them getting behind us. They've not had a lot to get behind this season, especially at home, and we know that, as players, we have to start giving them something to get behind.
“We appreciate their support, and we need them to stick with us for the final ten games - we'll do everything we can to stay up.”
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Jack Tucker and MK Dons will look to secure back-to-back wins when they take on Accrington Stanley at the Wham Stadium this weekend.
Tickets, which are available to buy in seated and standing areas, are priced at £20 adults, £15 over-64s/students, £10 12-17s and £5 under-12s.
To book tickets CLICK HERE, visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 01908 622933. Subject to availability, tickets and travel will be available to book up until 4pm on Friday 17 March.
