Shrewsbury Town welcomed Darren Ferguson and his side Peterborough United to the Montgomery Waters Meadow last evening for another Sky Bet League One fixture.
Despite the opposition’s solid table position, it was the Shrews who secured the three points, on the back of a positive and resolute performance.
Town shot-stopper Joe Murphy was the hero on the night, as the keeper made a second-half penalty save to keep his team in the lead. The goalkeeper was pleased with the win and was delighted with the opportunity to showcase his ability.
“It was nice to be in the team,” said Joe. “I was disappointed with the League Cup appearance that I had. I knew Max was struggling, it was still touch and go but I had to get my game head on.
“Looking at the goals they’ve scored, it wasn’t the best one to come into I think, but I think defensively the lads have been outstanding – they’ve been brilliant.
“It was nice to get back on the pitch, my voice has gone a little bit as you can hear because I scream and shout all day. It was nice to gamble on the penalty, I’ve actually saved penalties on my league debut for a few clubs.
“I’d love to see the distances the lads ran today, it was one of those where we had to dig in, without them really threatening, but another excellent clean sheet and three points.
“We obviously analyse penalties, look at run-ups, and look at the timing of the game. He was trying to give me the eyes to the other corner, but he hasn’t actually ever gone that side.
“I gambled and went the other way. Luckily enough, it stayed close to me. You want your league debut to go without any dramas – I’m delighted for the team.”
Joe is hopeful his performance will enable more opportunity in between the Town posts and will look to build on his performance and the clean sheet.
“It’s always tough looking on from the side,” said the shot-stopper. “The injury during pre-season killed me a little bit but I have no qualms with how the lads are playing, the way Max is playing.
“Seven clean sheets from 14, before the Wycombe game, is outstanding. I am just happy I was able to play my part. I could see from probably the first 15 to 20 minutes of training, he could go all the way to the top.
“I want to play, it’s nice to contribute and hopefully I will push him a little bit. I enjoyed last season, it was great at Bury, I played every minute and I feel good.
“I was expecting to deal with a lot more to ne honest when Peterborough come to town. I enjoyed it, and hopefully I have given the gaffer something to think about.”