Gaffer looks back on the win against Wigan Atheltic
Shrewsbury Town boss Paul Hurst praised his sides’ incredible energy levels as they went top of League One with victory over Wigan Athletic.
Stefan Payne scored the only goal of the game in the first half and Town then produced a brilliant defensive performance in the second half to take all three points.
“It was a fantastic effort from the team, which we said and knew it would have to be against this Wigan team”, Paul told the Press.
“I’m sure there will be results that aren’t as positive, but I’m not sure we will play a better team all season. The way that they work the ball and how comfortable they are under-pressure – it needed to be a top performance and one stemming from pure togetherness and hard work.
“There was also some quality as well. I thought we still looked a threat second-half even though they had a lot of territory. On the break we’ve got players that can take the ball up the pitch and create some chances ourselves.
“I thought we started a little nervy, maybe giving them a bit too much respect, but maybe I’m guilty in forgetting that for some of these players this is the biggest game that they’ve played in in their short careers.
“I’m just really pleased for them for everything they’ve done today and for the fans, who’ve had some more negative feeling in the last couple of seasons, to enjoy looking at that table - even if it is just for one night.”
Stefan Payne’s goal was his fourth since joining Town last month and Hurst the former Barnsley forwards efforts.
“I thought he worked tirelessly”, said Paul.
“He held the ball up and lasted longer than we expected. I think he wanted to stay on, but I just felt he was starting to fatigue, which is understandable. With Lenny, Stef and Carlton I’ve got great options and they’ve all contributed massively so far.”
Town now sit top of the pile in League One, but Paul admitted he won’t be getting ahead of himself.
“It would be nice if the season ended today and we were top, but there’s a long way to go”, smiled Hurst.
“You can’t help seeing the league because I watch the goals and they put up the league table. People obviously talk about, the fans are singing it, so you know it’s there, but I don’t look at it in any great detail.
“It’s just nice to see that we are in the top half rather than the second page that comes on.”