Hecky’s Bristol Reaction

  Following the reds 2 – 2 draw with Lee Johnson’s Bristol City, head coach Paul Heckingbottom had the below to say to the official website:  

‘It would have been a travesty if we hadn't have got anything out of that but when you've been behind and you've scored a late goal, you have to be satisfied with a point.

‘There were lots of pleasing things in there which we'll look back on and think we should have won the game.

‘We spoke at half time about tiny details that might cost us goals and killing the game off and also being ruthless and killing the game off. It could have been two or three nil and it could have been easier for us.

‘Instead we were 2-1 down and scrambling to get a point and we managed to do it.

‘The character of the lads is fantastic. From first minute to last they were great, even in the build-up, helping Josh Kay through his debut, they were great and it was a big part of it.

‘We had various players missing through different things and it has been strange but to a man the lads were fantastic and shows the value of all the squad.

‘The team did so well last week so why change everyone about. We had 10 players who played excellently last week who could then just carry on doing the same roles.

‘Josh understands what we wanted in the central midfield, he does it for the Under 23s and he was the one we wanted to put in.

‘He has to be pleased with himself, credit to Josh but I was really pleased with everyone in the squad who helped him through.

‘It can be difficult or daunting, not only is he making his debut but he's new to our club as well. It's a big step up in terms of the standard of football he's been used to and it has been a big eye opener for him today.

‘That's his instructions, to go on and change the game but he went on and we instantly concede which is a nightmare (on Hammill).

‘But we had some real attacking threats on the pitch then, we finished with five attackers on the field. It was a needs-must but they're the only players we have left as well.

‘He's got great talent. If you want anyone in that position with the ball it's Adam Hammill and luckily for us he's scored.

‘He's one of all our players who we keep pushing and pushing. It's not about the individual it's about the team getting points and we have to find a winning team that keeps picking up points.

‘We're happy where we are but we aren't satisfied with where we are. We'll keep pushing and trying to improve.’