Doughty wants more from Swindon but happy with result

MICHAEL DOUGHTY scored a second-half brace to claw Swindon Town back from two goals down at The County Ground earlier this afternoon. Total Sport Swindon’s Ryan Walker spoke to the goalscorer following the game.

Having been down to nine men for the majority of the second half after red cards had been shown to two of Lincoln’s players, many expected Swindon to produce another winning comeback. 

However, when analysing the game, Doughty explained the difficulties of playing against a team reduced to fewer men.

“I think it’s initially relief but after the game probably a little bit of frustration,” said Doughty.

“Ultimately I thought the boys did really well when it was eleven players on the pitch. 

“Then there were just a couple of lapses in concentration. It was an unbelievable wonder goal from them and then to be two-nil down with ten or nine men is a tough ask.,” he added.

“I remember playing last season against MK Dons away for Peterborough against nine men and they beat us one-nil so I know the feeling and the frustration.

“All in all against a very good side we can be pleased,” said Doughty.

With a man advantage for large parts of the game, Swindon played with a high tempo throughout as the Robins sought to pull off a shock win over League Two leaders Lincoln. 

And when speaking after the match, Doughty explained the tactics implemented to break down the opposition. 

“It’s a mixture between being patient and then also trying to score,” he said.

“Sometimes I think from the supporter there is frustration because they just want us to have a shot and cross it in at every possible stage.

“But the reality is that when they have nine men you have to move them around a bit. We did that ok and for the second goal it worked well and our main chances came from that action.

“Ultimately I think both parties will be quite pleased with the outcome,” said Doughty.

After scoring from the penalty spot early in the second half, Doughty produced a brilliant goal in the 88th minute to take his season tally to eight and equalise for Swindon, sending the County Ground into raptures. 

And when discussing his second goal, Doughty admitted that he opted for placement over power.
 
“That’s my signature move [giving the keeper the eyes],” joked Doughty.

“I don’t have much power at all so shooting through a crowd of bodies I have to use a bit of guile.

“I’m pleased to get the goals but am naturally disappointed to not have started the last two games.

“That’s the nature of the beast and the sport we are in there are highs and lows so I’m just happy today to come on contribute and score the goals,” he said.

Cutting a frustrating figure in recent matches has seen some fans draw criticism on the playmaker as poor performances have led to some questioning his commitment to the club.

And when questioned on this, Doughty was honest in his personal appraisal. 

“I think it’s just the competitive nature of myself,” said Doughty.

“Over the Christmas period we had some really tough away games and personally my aspirations are to be where Lincoln are.

“That’s why I came back to this club. I had offers in League One but decided to come here because of my relationship with everyone. Being candid, this isn’t the position in the table that I’d like us to be.

“It’s my job to channel that frustration in a better way, channel that frustration in a better way and I think over the last few games it’s got the better of me. It’s certainly something I’m looking to work on,” he said.