A 1-1 draw at Highbury was enough to lift Fleetwood Town back into the npower League 2 automatic promotion places.
A 1-1 draw at Highbury was enough to lift Fleetwood Town back into the npower League 2 automatic promotion places.
“Our new position is a positive after today’s games. Another positive is the amount left in reserve as I know we can play much, much better,” said Micky Mellon.
The Town boss only had 18 fit players to select from against AFC Wimbledon.
“Having so many forced changes before the game is difficult. We’re then faced with Damien Johnson injuring his hamstring in the first half. It can be difficult to play a group who haven’t played competitively too much together and we know we can be much better than the performance today.
“There’s no point being too down hearted. We are third in the division. We certainly would have taken that position if offered at the start of the season. We know we can play much better than that and we will do just that next time.”
Mellon asked for more intensity after a lacklustre home defeat last weekend.
“I thought we came out of the trap quickly enough with players putting themselves about and being available. I’m disappointed after going in front at home we didn’t go on capitalise. I didn’t see us creating a host of chances and we may be left ourselves open to the counter attack too often.
“All in all it was a fair result.”
Wimbledon drew level on the hour with a free kick after imposing themselves in the second half.
“The goal was very disappointing from our point of view. A glanced header in your 18-yard box is something we will closely analyse, learn from and move on.”
The visitors had an opportunity to take a possible winner when the referee penalised Scott Davies for handling a back-pass.
“Everyone around me, including maybe the fourth official, seemed to think the ball came of the attacking player. I must praise the bravery of our players who threw their bodies right in front of the ball at close range to guard our goal.
An injury check will be a Sunday priority for the manager, particularly with the league game at Chesterfield on Tuesday just around the corner.
“We need a squad of footballers who are fit and ready to play at any time. It’s obvious we aren’t go to play with the same starting 11 every week . That’s why it’s important to keep the whole squad sharp and mentally focused.”
Supporter travel to Chesterfield depart at 3pm and costs £15. Book in the club shop or call 01253 775080.
