Johnson Hails 'Powerful' City Unity

Saturday, April 8th 2017

Lee Johnson hailed the power of unity that inspired his players to a 3-1 victory over previously in-form Wolves at Ashton Gate.

City responded to the midweek drubbing they endured at Preston North End in stunning fashion, picking up where they left off on home soil against Huddersfield Town three weeks ago.

Jamie Paterson opened the scoring with a curling shot from 20 yards, while Tammy Abraham struck either side of half-time – his first coming from the penalty spot – to move on to 24 goals for the season in all competitions.

But it was the encouragement from team-mates, staff and most of all supporters that left the head coach beaming at full time.

“I thought the players were fantastic with their bite and their determination to the basics,” Johnson told Bristol City Player HD.

“We talk about world-class basics and we did them very, very well. The attitude was exemplary, led on by the fans who encouraged at every moment – even when we did give the ball away.

“The fans encouraged, as did the staff and the other players. That’s powerful and that’s what we need for the final three home games.

“We’ve had two poor results on the road, which we’ve apologised for, but this is a great tonic for everybody.

“Anybody who doubts the desire or commitment will have seen today that it’s there. We’re all fighting for each other and the fans showed that as well.”

The boss reserved individual praise for his goalkeeper and goalscorers.

“The first goal was always going to be important and we can’t forget Frankie’s save at 0-0 from the one on one with Dicko,” he added. “That was a great save and we needed that.

“Paterson scored a fantastic goal with a real bit of quality. His hips were slinky, he kept hold of the ball at the right times and released it at the right times.

“With Tammy, for me it’s not even about the goals. His attitude to do the defensive side allows him to get the opportunities. He’s got world-class movement and we know he’ll score.

“The second goal sums him up – he shows the defender he’s coming inside and nips outside of him to tuck it in after a great ball by Korey Smith. That was a massive goal for us because it just killed them a little bit.”