Lee Johnson believes his Oldham side securing a point against relegation rivals Colchester United at Boundary Park has showed him their battling qualities.
Teenager Drey Wright pounced on Dean Bouzanis’ fumble but Jose Baxter’s header – his 14th goal of the season – midway through the second half gave Latics a point.
Oldham pressed for a winner but despite a stubborn Colchester holding firm, Johnson was relatively happy.
“I was reasonably pleased because it was a tough game played in horrible conditions,” said the 31-year-old.
“I thought we created the better chances and were the side which wanted to win it.”
“I am sure the relegation scrap is going to go to the wire as there are a lot of big games still to come.”
Athletic fielded an unchanged line-up from Good Friday meaning loanee Bobby Reid made his debut as a replacement but U’s legend Chris Iwelumo was an unused substitute.
Reid and Jordan Obita came off the bench as Johnson urged his side to atone for Bouzanis’ error in the second half.
“The players and the fans have to understand there is going to be a bobble every now and again,” said Johnson.
“We understand that and it is a case of getting on with it, be brave and keep wanting the ball whatever the pitch.
“I told the boys at half time that he [Bouzanis] dug you out at Swindon with a great save and you have to now dig him out.
“And when Baxter scored, the players were really keen to say it was for him which is good team spirit.”
The point, although one both sides would probably trade for all three, moves Oldham out of the relegation zone above Scunthorpe United on goal difference.
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