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Gannon's fan salute

24/ 9/2008

JIM Gannon expressed frustration with the backing of some of the County fans at Edgeley Park in Saturday’s match programme notes, but he went on to salute them again after his side had turned in another encouraging performance against Swindon.

Unfortunately Stephen Gleeson’s thumping first-half strike wasn’t enough to secure the Hatters an elusive first home league win of the season, but another potentially crucial point was well-earned and well-deserved against Swindon, on a day when both sides created plenty of goalscoring opportunities.

The County manager said: "It’s been a tough week for us, but we’ve come out of it with three positive results.

"Swindon had chances, although they were few and far between, but I was really pleased with the crowd today. There was good energy at Edgeley Park and it sucked us towards the goal.

"I was looking for a response from them and the players today, and we got that.

"Sometimes when you’re looking for more adrenaline and passion the crowd can give the players that, and that was the case today.

"We will get sharper and better in terms of attacking and scoring more goals, but our system is working well and we’re keeping it tight at the back.

"I’m pleased, and if we can just start scoring a few more goals maybe we can then start challenging nearer the top of the table.

"I’ve been really pleased with the lads again though. I’ve asked them if they feel they can get more out of themselves, and I got a positive response. We definitely had the momentum with us towards the end of the game.

"We can still pick up plenty more positive results. I’m really looking forward to the rest of the season with this team.

"I asked the Swindon bench if they were happy with the result at the end of the game, and they were, which is perhaps a reflection of how it went today."

Gannon was right, Swindon boss Maurice Malpas did admit that he had been happy with a draw.

The Scot said: "When we step back later on or during the week and analyse today’s game, I think everyone will agree that 1-1 was probably a correct result.

"We created quite a few decent chances, particularly early on and in the second half.

"A point away from home is decent though, I’m happy enough with it.

"Away from home we have been looking solid this season, and today was no different. It’s amazing really, but at times we looked strong again today.

"We started off really well and we had Stockport pegged back, but it was disappointing to have let them back into the game before half-time."