Ainsworth success is mind over matter...
MANAGER Gareth Ainsworth revealed the secret behind Wycombe Wanderers’ first win in more than a month was refocusing the players’ minds.
The Chairboys last gave their supporters reason for cheer on August 13 when Anthony Stewart’s last-gasp goal saw off Grimsby Town.
Five league matches have followed without reward, but Dayle Southwell’s goal in the closing seconds of the first half was enough to get Ainsworth’s team back on track with their second win of the season.
The boss said: “It’s been very tough, but I’ll pay credit to people who’ve worked hard this week for me behind the scenes. We’ve done plenty of work on the mental side and resilience.
“They’re all good players but sometimes the mind, it needs to be strong.
“In the first half we were the better team without doubt, we could have had two or three as Dayle Southwell missed a couple of chances.
“I got worried as there was a 15-minute period towards the end where they were coming back into it.
“There’s plenty to work on, but it’s nice to have a result like that.
“I’ve always said I want to be mid-table come the turn of the year when I think we’ll be stronger.”
In a quiet opening Michael Harriman’s free-kick produced an excellent save from Jamie Jones.
Wycombe again went close with Southwell failing to convert a gilt-edged chance on the stroke of half-time.
The 22-year-old, signed from Boston United in the summer, then went from villain to hero moments later, tapping home Sam Wood’s cross in the third minute of first-half stoppage time.
Both sides upped the tempo in the second period, but the Chairboys resisted Stevenage’s efforts with Andrew Fox spurning the best chance for the visitors, and a barrage of long balls coming to nothing.
Stevenage boss Darren Sarll said: “I thought we were great. We were the better side and I can’t believe anyone would question that opinion. We had a greater amount of goalmouth action than the home team.
“I go home very disappointed – no one in my organisation celebrates losing – but also I go home very proud of my players.
“They’ve shown a resilience and determination and fight to really pull a point or three points out.
“It was a great chance to jump inside the top ten, but it was a great performance, showing fight and pride for Stevenage.”