Latics boss full of praise for quartet

DANCING WITH DELIGHT: Cristian Montano celebrates after scoring Athletic’s second goal.

ATHLETIC'S fantastic four attracted praise from manager Paul Dickov following an emphatic first home win of the season.

Matt Derbyshire, Jose Baxter, Lee Croft and Cristian Montano heaped problems on Preston during the 3-1 victory at Boundary Park.

Baxter and Montano scored terrific goals either side of half-time, Croft was busy and effective down the right flank and Derbyshire a constant threat up front.

“One of the most pleasing things for me, with both wingers, was the work-rate they put in without the ball. It was fantastic,” said Dickov, whose team have been given a major confidence boost to take into a difficult trip to Sheffield United on Saturday.

Dickov is keen that high-pressure tactics continue.

“Three points is the most important thing,” he added. “But the manner in which we have won both games is especially pleasing.

“Sheffield United is a fantastic game for us, at a big ground against a very good team. The boys will know their standards will have to be bang-on to get anything from that game.”

Dickov has injury concerns to centre-back pair James Tarkowski and Jean-Yves Mvoto ahead of the game against the Blades, who were 1-0 winners at Leyton Orient thanks to a goal from ex-Athletic loan striker Nick Blackman.








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