Dara O’Shea admitted he and his teammates had to put their bodies on the line a few times against Yeovil Town on Boxing Day as they recorded their third straight win on the bounce.
The defender, on loan to City from West Brom, was a tower of strength at the back winning numerous headers against Alex Fisher and also blocking one of his goalbound shots right on the edge of the six-yard line.
“We were under the cosh a bit after they scored,” recalled Dara. “It was just pressure and we had to put our bodies on the line and I just put my body on the line. That is what I am here to do. I am here to defend and stop goals from going in.
“I just think everyone knows his job and everyone will fight for each other as well. We are a team here and we all want to win which is the main thing. I think that just brings us through the games.”
City had taken the lead through a wonderful strike from Lee Holmes, that Dara admitted that was his reward for the hard work he put in.
However, Tom James then volleyed the visitors level at the start of the second half. Christy Pym then made a crucial save at 1-1 before Jayden Stockley popped up with his 50th goal in 96 games for City to win the match.
“That is Pymmy down to a T,” said Dara. “He is there when he needs to be called upon. He is always ready and he is just great keeper. Those saves really do make the games and win them for us.”
Speaking about Jayden, Dara added: “He just pops up at the right time, but that is what he is there to do. He is a goalscorer and he has been unbelievable these last few games. He never stops working hard. You see it in training, you wouldn’t believe how hard he works but he gets his rewards for it.”
“It is an unbelievable goal record he has got for City, but he works hard on it every day and I am glad it is coming off for him and he is doing very well.”