Cotterill Pleased With Slick City

The manager praised his players for the way they battled in recent away victories at Leyton Orient and Crawley Town, but an improved playing surface at Huish Park paved the way for a dominant display in possession over the relegation-threatened Glovers.

Quick-fire goals at the start of the second half from Kieran Agard and Luke Freeman set City on their way, before George Saville’s late third put the result beyond doubt.

“That was the best football we’ve played for a little while against a team who were ready and up for it,” Cotterill told Bristol City Player.

“Although the scoreline will suggest it was comfortable, we were only a goal away from it being 2-1 and game on (until the 86th minute).

“We controlled the game well, passed the ball well and it was probably no coincidence we played like that on a good pitch.

“Our possession was very good. Whilst we’ve had to show the other side of us over the past few weeks, tonight we were able to show the good footballing side of us and that was pleasing.

“We’d showed good patience but we just needed to make sure we added a cutting edge in the final third, and we managed to do that in the second half to really good effect.

“We’re delighted with these three games away from home – having only one home game out of six, our return has been first-class and to get ourselves 13 points clear is a fantastic achievement by the players.”

The manager also paid tribute to the travelling fans, who made up nearly one third of a 6,591 crowd.

“Two thousand (away fans) is nothing new – if that drops between now and the end of the season we’re going to be really disappointed!” Cotterill joked.

“They didn’t have a covered end tonight but you could still hear them. They’ve had a lot of lean times but hopefully they’re enjoying the ride this year.”