Peterhead manager Jim McInally has praised his players for handling the burden of expectation being placed on them early in Saturday’s 1-0 win over visitors Airdrie.
Jordon Brown’s second half goal sealed the Blue Toon’s with Jim saying: “We went into the game as underdogs however that all changed after four minutes when their player Kyle Turner was sent off. I thought it was a red card straightaway and I am pleased that Ryan was able to continue as it could have been a bad one.”
“As soon as their player was dismissed the onus was on us to attack more and use our man advantage. The players knew that but thankfully they never rushed into anything. They kept possession well and waited for a chance and when it came Jordon gave us all a reminder about what he can do.”
“Airdrie did hit the bar at nil-nil but they did not have too many other efforts at our goal. An attempt going close like that could have spooked the players but they never panicked and stuck to their jobs.”
Jim had special praise for the midfield duo of the experienced Scott Brown and debutant Hamish Ritchie as he said: “It was a good all round team performance but Scott was exceptional. He ran the midfield and brought other players like Andrew McCarthy into the game.”
“As for Hamish I am delighted with his debut. I thought he was a good player when I saw him with Inverurie Locos however he was better than I thought he was. He had a shooting chance at the goal however he recognised Jordon was in a better position and passed to him and that maturity will stand him in good stead.”
