Leam Richardson | “It was resilient, hard-working and hard-fought”

Latics manager reflects on the 1-1 draw against Norwich City at Carrow Road

• Leam Richardson | “It was resilient, hard-working and hard-fought”
• Latics manager reflects on their 1-1 draw at Carrow Road
• Richardson: “I’m glad we can send them home in good sprints, fall on the right side of the result, and make them have a good weekend.”

Latics manager Leam Richardson praised his side’s immense resilience after they earned a point against Norwich City on Saturday afternoon.

James McClean opened the scoring for the visitors in the 28th minute before Max Aarons equalised for the Canaries just after the hour mark. Faced with an enormous defensive task to keep the hosts at bay throughout a challenging second period, Latics showed great grit, determination and character to return back to the North West with a point.

Speaking to Latics TV, Richardson spoke about the resilience that was on display from his side, as well as their commendable willingness to match the challenge head-on at Carrow Road.

“It was very resilient, hard-working, and hard-fought,” he said.

“It took us 15-20 minutes to adapt to their shape, and the pace of the game but once we got the distances, we were resilient in what we are doing and could always catch them on the counter.

“Before the goal, we should’ve scored but we grew in belief within the game as well. You’ve got to run to match the quality of the player - and with the five substitutes coming on, some teams are finishing with a stronger team than what they started with.

“That’s the challenge we’ve got to accept and embrace, and these lads aren’t half accepting the challenge. 

“We’ve got to get that belief and education through the week to be better and repeat that Saturday/Tuesday. It’s going to be a tough ask but these lads have certainly got the mindset and acceptance to take it in.”

A large contingent of Latics supporters made the long trip to get behind the lads at Carrow Road, and Richardson was delighted that his side’s performance will send them home in good spirits. 

“The energy levels that we needed to finish that game had to come from the stands,” he said

“It was huge (to have their influence). We wish them well travelling back home and it’s some ask and shift to get there for a 12:30pm kick-off.

“I’m glad we can send them home in good sprints, fall on the right side of the result, and make them have a good weekend.”