GARETH Ainsworth hailed the role goalkeeper Ryan Allsop played in keeping Oxford United at bay to help Wycombe Wanderers win at Wembley.
The Chairboys stopper was beaten by Mark Sykes’s mis-hit cross, but quickly made amends in the Sky Bet League One play-off final.
With United pushing hard to go 2-1 up in the second half, Allsop twice denied Rob Dickie.
The second save in particular was outstanding – and allowed Joe Jacobson to claim promotion via a penalty.
Ainsworth said: “They delivered and then some.
“We were much better (in the semi-final) at Fleetwood, but this was always going to be cagey.
“My goalkeeper made two world-class saves.
Also read: Mistakes cost us dearly, admits Oxford United boss
“They really came at us, they are a good side.
“I’m so proud of the boys.”
He added: “We were up against a great side, but I was confident we’d get chances.”
Despite supporters unable to attend due to coronavirus restrictions, Wycombe made all the noise in the stands.
A concerted effort by substitutes, reserve players not in the squad and even directors to back the side vocally could be clearly heard.
It was a tactic the Chairboys had used in both legs of the semi-final and Ainsworth felt it had played a part.
He said: “This is new to us, this no crowd, and we said can we all be our own fans.
“I extended it to the directors. It was evident in all three games we can make a difference.
“My boys were willing to shout and scream and sing.
“They didn’t care what it looked like.
“We don’t care what it looks like if that’s what it takes to get the job done.”
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