Manager Paul Cox was delighted by Anthony Howell’s last-gasp strike in today’s 2-1 victory over Newport County at One Call Stadium, insisting today’s game was ‘all about the result’.
Howell stooped low to convert Matt Rhead’s header across goal in the last minute of normal time to earn us a priceless three points, which lifts us up to 17th spot in Sky Bet League Two.
Cox admits that although it was a scrappy game, the result is the only thing what matters.
“I don’t think we played particularly well in the second half,” said our boss. “I thought overall it was a scrappy game, blustery winds, and the ball seemed to be bobbling all over the place.
“When we came out and conceded a sloppy goal, even though I thought it was a foul on Alan Marriott, we then got camped in our own half for 20-25 minutes.
“So to win the game like we did was excellent. I‘ve just said to the boys that I’m not bothered about the performance – today was all about the result.”
No fewer than seven players were booked in what was a feisty encounter, but our manager has sympathy with referee Andy Davies.
“It was a tough game for the referee, but [refereeing] is a tough old business and it’s a tough job,” continued Cox.
“Today was a game between two teams with a bit of history from the Conference [Premier] days. Both teams had something to play for, so it was a good win for us.”
He added: “What we’ve got to do is forget about teams around us and concentrate on our own results.
“I was pleased with our endeavour and our work-ethic. The boys have got a bit of character about them and they kept going, even though I thought Newport probably shaded it in the second half.”
A full post-match interview with manager Paul Cox will be available on Stags Player later tonight. To subscribe, click here.
