Steven Pressley praises his players after 3-2 Mansfield Town...
Sky Blues boss Steven Pressley was pleased with his players’ spirit and winning mentality after they twice came from behind to beat Mansfield with a last-minute penalty.
The hosts took the lead midway through the first half when Calvin Andrew curled into the top corner before Carl Baker levelled from the penalty spot after Callum Wilson rounded the keeper and was brought down.
Sam Clucas restored the lead shortly after the break only from Richard Beevers to turn Wilson’s cross into his own goal.
Baker then snatched victory late on with another penalty from another Wilson burst past the keeper.
Pressley was delighted with the resilience his young side showed and felt it represents one of the qualities key in a successful side.
He said: “It was hugely challenging for us tonight considering the age of our team.
“A lot of players deserve a lot of credit for the way they approached tonight’s game. At 21 Cyrus Christie was by far the most experienced of our back four in the second half.
“Our senior players, although there wasn’t too many of them, their attitude was first class.
“We have played better in pre-season than we did tonight but our attitude was first class and you want to have that mentality. I want that installed in my players; that winning every game is vital.”
Wilson and Baker were singled out for special praise as the former had a hand in all three goals while the latter produced an impressive all-round performance.
“It was pleasing to see Callum using his biggest asset, which is his pace,” added Pressley.
“He got on to two or three balls rounded the goalkeeper and brought the foul – and two very good penalties from Carl.
“Not only did he execute form the penalty spot he was a threat all night. He was outstanding. His work ethic without the ball was excellent and he showed a great example for our younger players.”
Spanish defender Daniel Orozco started at centre-back but is unlikely to have his City stay extended after suffering an injury shortly before half-time.
Pressley said: “I appreciate him flying over for the one game. It is certainly one that I don’t think we will be pursuing but he showed he deserved to get a contract by flying over.
“It was a typical lower league performance from them and I think it is something he hasn’t experienced before.”