REACTION: SHAUN DERRY
Shaun Derry was highly complementary of his Cambridge United side following the U’s 3-1 home win and a “dominant” 95 minute performance against York City in Sky Bet League Two.
Speaking post-match, the U’s Boss said: “We dominated proceedings from start to finish and the way we started the game was pivotal in today’s affair. We controlled the keys parts of the game in the midfield areas in particular and I thought Jimmy Spencer was excellent up at the top.
“After a difficult afternoon last week, we were looking for a response and in the past we have always bounced back well, so we were all confident we could do it again.
“The players should take full praise because they have led the response from within the group this week.”
Jimmy Spencer put the U’s firmly into the driving seat when the former Notts County man headed home a ninth minute opener before terrorising the Minstermen throughout the afternoon with a physical performance up front for United.
The Cambridge Manager commended his labours and commented: “Jimmy is a proper number nine and importantly just wants to play football. When you see a fit and strong Jimmy Spencer, there aren’t many better than him in that position at this level.
“We’re pleased with the two centre forwards getting their two goals and delighted with the three points.”
The U’s may have extended their lead had Luke Berry not chipped over the cross bar from the penalty spot in the second half, but Derry states the blip should not take anything away from the United captain’s excellent efforts alongside James Dunne and Ryan Ledson in the heart of midfield.
“There is nobody in the ground more disappointed than Luke himself for the penalty. It’s a respectful football club and as the captain of this club he absolutely leads the line in that regard, he has also done incredibly well for Cambridge United.
“At the end of the day, he has made a simple mistake and immediately apologised when we went into the dressing room.”
He continued: “The midfield was the key area of the game. James [Dunne] anchored the two in front of him, Ryan pushed on more and really showed his energy and enthusiasm as a young player and Luke showed his class.
“The three worked really well today.”
United now face a trip to Fratton Park next Saturday for an encounter with Portsmouth, and Derry states that with a positive response under their belts his side will get to work on preparations for the south coast clash in the coming days.
“If we are going to try and stay in this promotion run in for as long as possible, we certainly needed to respond today. We have taken care of that now and we’ll look forward for Portsmouth when we return to training in the week.”
Tickets for the Portsmouth match are available to purchase online, in-store and by calling 01223 566 500. Meanwhile, the U’s return to the Abbey Stadium on Tuesday 1st March against Wycombe Wanderers with tickets also on sale now.