By Kim Richards
Oldham Athletic boss Lee Johnson hailed his ‘heroes’ after Latics prevailed at Gigg Lane, sending the home side down while keeping their own chances of League One survival alive.
Super-sub Matt Smith powered home the decisive goal with ten minutes to go after latching on to fellow substitute Kirk Millar’s cross.
The win – Johnson’s second since he took over from Paul Dickov – keeps the 31-year-old’s side hovering just above the relegation zone.
“That was a totally heroic display from the lads,” said Johnson.
“It was crucial we didn’t concede towards the end and thankfully we managed to do that in what was always going to be a tough, tough game.
“It was difficult in the first half because Bury were giving it everything of course, but in the second period we restricted them to long-range efforts and in the end we’ve probably deserved our win.
“It keeps that little bit of momentum going and we’ve just got to try and build on that on Tuesday now against Yeovil.”
Johnson went on to praise Oldham’s travelling supporters, who made themselves well known throughout the game.
“It was like a home game,” he said.
“To have 2,000 fans cheering you on was brilliant. It really gives the players a lift and towards the end there it almost felt as though they were sucking the ball into the net for us.
“I can’t say just how proud I am to be manager of this club. We can really go places if we manage to stay up this season.”
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