Keeping a first clean sheet in 10 games, caretaker manager Andy Dawson was pleased with the effort of his side as they drew 0-0 with Blackpool at Glanford Park on Good Friday.
Indeed, United would have won it late on, with the Seasiders ‘stopper making a terrific save from Lee Novak’s header after Adam Hammill had crossed the ball in.
Dawson told iFollow Iron: “I thought the players showed good quality at times. When things weren’t going well and Blackpool had opportunities, they put their bodies on the line – which you have to do no matter who you’re playing and when. I’m pleased we’ve kept a first clean sheet in 10 games and that gives us confidence as well.
“If we keep getting in those parts of the pitch, creating those quality chances, keep believing and keep working hard, then those opportunities will be taken.
“To a man, every single one of them was willing to put their body on the line, block shots, stop crosses, get back into shape and recover quickly. They’re all things we’ve spoken about for the last few weeks. Sometimes it goes for you and sometimes it doesn’t, but if you keep doing them you get your luck in the end.
“Jak (Alnwick) showed his quality too. When we need him in that instance he’s there but that’s part of the goalkeeper’s job. He kept us in the game with a great save, but it starts with Kyle (Wootton) and Kev (van Veen) up front, and Novs coming on, as much as him keeping it out of the net, and that’s what you’ve got to have if you keep clean sheets.”
Speaking about the late Novak chance, Dawson continued: “It was a great ball from Hammy, and a fantastic run by Novs, who got across the centre-half. I was waiting for it to hit the net, but credit to the ‘keeper who made an absolutely fantastic save.”
A big positive was Josh Morris coming on as a substitute for his first action in four months following a fractured fibula and strained ankle ligaments sustained in the away clash at Doncaster in December.
Dawson added: “He’s worked hard in his rehab and showed what a fit boy he is when he came on, looking to cover every blade of grass. He showed his quality and class, willing to take the ball in any area and it helps relieve the pressure at times - that’s how you change momentum in games. He got in some good areas, switched play and we all know the quality he possesses.”
Next up for the Iron is a trip to Charlton Athletic on Easter Monday, and Dawson is continued: “We have to concentrate on how we’re going to get the result we want. It has to be about us. If someone does their job right and their mate’s backing them up, you have a chance of winning a game. If you don’t, you’re going to struggle. We have to get ready and attack Charlton on Monday.”
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