|
Atkins has never been one to praise the Imps, and his bitterness continued after he labelled City a long ball side.
"We were up against a side who had no intention of coming forward and trying to win the game, other than from a ball over the top." These were the comments of Ian Atkins to the press after the game. However the attack was quickly rebuffed by an irate Keith.
"Nobody can tell me Bristol Rovers are anything but similar to us in the way they play," were the correct observations of Big Keith. The sides shared the game 50 - 50 until the final ten minutes when a typical Atkins side attempted to get the goal they needed. "Ian's teams have always played the same way and it's brought him success. It's frustrating to be labelled with this long ball tag because you would think it's only us who play that way."
Indeed Atkins built a strong Oxford side on the same principle. On two occasions over three seasons Atkins Oxford beat the Imps 1-0 after shutting up shop for 85 minutes of the game. Saturday appeared to be no different bar the goal they lacked!
Ironically it was big Bristol forward Lee Thorpe who initiated the ill feeling between the two sides following a clash with Ian Clarkson and then Northampton manager Atkins. In that incident Atkins branded Lincoln 'thugs' after Clarkson recieved an injury in yet another 0-0 draw between the sides.
Despite the ill judged comments from Atkins Keith remained upbeat following the draw.
"I said earlier in the week that Bristol is a difficult place to come and if you earn a point you would be delighted.
"They had some chances near the end, but you expect a home side to have a spell of pressure at some stage."
City now turn their attentions to Birmingham City in the Coca Cola cup. We eagerly await the comments of Steve Bruce!