Harry Kewell was pleased with Notts County’s defensive display as they battled to a goalless draw with Oldham Athletic on Tuesday night.
The Magpies came under pressure throughout the 90 minutes but stayed strong to earn a fourth clean sheet of the season.
And Kewell says it was important to stay strong in defence as the visitors poured forwards.
“I felt we defended superbly. A lot of teams would have struggled to score against us tonight,” said the Australian.
“We weren’t at our best and Oldham were on the front foot but we showed desire and enthusiasm to keep them out. My players put their bodies on the line.
“They pinned us back at times but we showed strength to defend and the energy we displayed to get back and support each other was excellent.”
Kewell admits his side struggled to get going in an attacking sense, though Enzio Boldewijn did almost net a late winner – only to be denied by the post.
“It was a tough day at the office because we weren’t making connections going forward and played a few sloppy passes,” he said.
“There were times we got into good positions but then took too many touches and I think that allowed Oldham to get close to us.
“Maybe we could have nicked it through Enzio at the end but Oldham are a good team and I’m proud of the way we earned the point.”
Ross Fitzsimons was named Man of the Match and his was one of several performances that impressed the gaffer.
Kewell said: “Ross was excellent and when he wasn’t there someone else was working to get back on the line.
“Jamie Turley was superb. He’s a great professional that works hard every day and is the perfect player to coach and a privilege to have in the team.
“I thought Shaun Brisley and Elliott Ward were excellent as well and so was Enzio, who offered our best goal threat by creating chances out of nothing.”