Bury manager David Flitcroft insists that a tight defence is key to his side’s promotion charge as they entertain Northampton Town at the JD Stadium.
The Shakers kept their fifth clean sheet in six games away at York City midweek, a run that has coincided with them collecting 15 of a possible 18 points.
And despite abuse from opposition fans, Flitcroft is adamant that his side’s organisation and desire are qualities to be admired.
“We have an insatiable appetite to keep a clean sheet for Popey [Nick Pope] – he’s had 16 clean sheets in 24 games and he’s getting booed,” he said.
“I don’t want to be a part of that though that is not football to me, you have to appreciate quality when you’re in amongst it and see it.
“He’s been outstanding for us and all the lads are a credit to the football club, now they’re getting their rewards.”
Those rewards have seen Bury move firmly back into the automatic play-off hunt, currently sitting third only four points behind Shrewsbury Town in third.
Despite only suffering two defeats in their last ten outings, the Shakers do have an inferior goal difference to the teams above them.
But Chris Hussey, who joined from promotion rivals Burton Albion in the summer, says that Flitcroft wants more shutouts from his charges.
“The gaffer has been putting the emphasis on clean sheets, away from home and even at home we’re going to create chances and score goals,” said the 26-year-old.
“Defending has been the worst part of my game really but the gaffer is helping me a lot on that and I’m trying to add it to my game.
“The togetherness in the group, I’ve never been in a team like it if I’m honest and when lads come off the bench they always play their part.”
Main image courtesy of Bury FC via YouTube, with thanks.
