Paul Hurst delighted as Shrewsbury bounce back
Boss Paul Hurst was delighted to see positivity sweep back into Shrewsbury Town's sails after his side recovered from defeat in style by beating Oxford 3-2.
A Shaun Whalley double either side of Jon Nolan's strike earned Town the points on a day where the scoreline flattered the visitors, who netted two comeback strikes but failed to get back on terms.
Hurst was pleased to head into Sunday's Checkatrade Trophy final with Lincoln City on the back of three points after the 3-1 Good Friday defeat at Rochdale.
Town had to make do without a number of key players for the clash with Karl Robinson's U's - including injured pair Toto Nsiala and Alex Rodman, as well as the suspended Abu Ogogo - but impressed with their attacking style at Montgomery Waters Meadow.
"I think we were delighted to get over 50, then 60 and 70 and now into the 80s," said Hurst as his side moved on to 81 points in League One. "I think it's an outstanding achievement no matter what happens, that's genuine.
"We want to see if we can get as many as possible and see where we finish. For me today was getting a bit of positivity back after a defeat and losing Toto.
"It felt like there was a bit - not negativity - but feeling down and sorry for ourselves.
"That's the last thing we want. We shouldn't be in that position."
Hurst's men have impressed while recovering from the very few setbacks in the league this season. The boss thought his side's three points were deserved and the game warranted a bigger scoreline in Town's favour.
He continued: "I think it's only once in league games we've suffered back-to-back defeats. I think there are doubters out there - I don't mean that nastily but with questioning some players missing.
"But I thought they were excellent. It was a lot closer than it should have been in terms of the scoreline.
"We looked a big threat. I thought we gave too many opportunities away, not just the goals. The second is a little bit of misfortune again.
"Shaun's (Whalley) been a big asset for us in terms of goals from himself and assists.
"He did look a little tired in the first half, we were a bit concerned but he seemed to come through and grow into the game.
"We certainly got what we deserved."
