Mixed emotions for boss Cox as Kettering Town are held

Paul Cox was left with mixed emotions after Kettering Town battled out a goalless draw with AFC Telford United at Latimer Park.

Honours ended even and defences were very much on top in tough conditions as both teams added another point to their tallies in the Vanarama National League North.

The Poppies made most of the running and were out of luck in the second half when Jevan Anderson’s looping header came back off the crossbar.

And while boss Cox admitted his team lacked quality in the final third, there were aspects of the performance that pleased him.

The Kettering manager said: “I think we had the lion’s share of the ball and I think we asked more questions, I can’t recall Adam Collin having a great deal to do throughout the 90 minutes.

“There was probably a lack of quality in the final third from both sides and, I hate to say it again, but the pitch comes into play when you are looking to create that bit of quality.

“I thought we had a good shout for at least one penalty, some might say there were four or maybe five and once again there were some strange decisions from the referee that I can’t fathom to be honest.

“The good thing is, and I said this to the boys afterwards, that we are having teams coming to us and setting up to get a point.

“We are starting to impose ourselves and we are starting to get that DNA, hopefully consistently now. The next stage is being stronger in the final third to break teams down at home.

“At this stage, with where we are, it’s a bit of a pat on the back for us that clubs of that stature and with those resources do that with us.

“We are getting there but I still want more. I still think we can do better things in the final third but we didn’t chase the game, unlike in other games at home where we have chased it and got done by a killer goal.

“We kept our shape and our composure and let’s not take away anything from Telford because they have some experienced boys in their backline.

“We have to give them credit for being resolute but we did ask questions, the fans clapped us off so I think they were appreciative of our application.

“The boys have done all they can and they worked hard. It’s a point. Did we want more? Yes.

“But sometimes you have to give the opposition credit for being resolute and solid against us.”

Cox, meanwhile, insisted “health is more important than football” after captain Luke Graham had to be withdrawn early in the game.

It was confirmed afterwards that Graham was having problems with his vision and he is now set to be assessed.

The Poppies added defender Connor Johnson and striker Ethan Johnston, who has joined on loan from Northampton Town, to their squad this week.

And while neither got on the pitch, Cox insists every player will be vital in the coming weeks.

“Everyone’s health is more important than football,” the Poppies boss added.

“Luke will need to get checked out by the doctor and I hope he will be 100 per cent fine and we will assess him.

“We all love football but we have to make sure he is alright and looked after.

“I thought Macca (Michael McGrath) went back there and was outstanding and we have got Connor Johnson in there as well now.

“The squad will continue to evolve. Connor has had a chance today to come in and get a feel for us and a look at what we do before we integrate him.

“We have also brought Ethan in and I didn’t think it was the game to throw him in there. But these are positive signings for us.

“We are going to use players. If we got the next 10 games without any injuries and fatigue then we will be the luckiest club out there.”