"It was a difficult game today because we have gone on this run of not winning but we were really, really determined to shift it this afternoon.
"We didn't get back until the early hours of Thursday morning with the players not getting to bed until 6 a.m. and to put on a performance with such high commitment and energy - I was so very proud of them.
"Everything has been stacked against them in recent weeks with the run of not winning and playing with 10 men at Old Trafford but we battled today and won. They were a good side and they were unfortunate to have not been in front by half time but we kept at it and that is the most important thing and what a great finish by Ben Strevens.
"I thought Ben was one of the unsung heroes at Old Trafford and I think today he did a great job in midfield. I didn't think it was right for Louie today, and it would have been an emotional decision to play him after he was taken off so early at Old Trafford but I decided I wanted to reward that midfield four that played against Manchester and I thought they repaid me today.
"Dwane Lee scored a great goal. It was a fantastic piece of intelligent football, whilst Liam Hatch worked his socks and then Jason Norville came on and caused all kinds of problems for them as well.
"It was has been a very difficult period of nine or 10 weeks now but I am so very pleased for all of the players that we have been rewarded for our efforts today. There is a great team spirit here and they have stuck together.
"Ross has done very well after what happened in the week and I rested Grazioli today as I thought he needed the break. He has worked so hard for us and don't forget he has been part of a 4-5-1 formation where he has been the sole runner.
"Some people will say 'why did you rest Graz today?' but I have full faith in all of my squad. Graz has probably put in as much effort so far this season as what he has done for two thirds of last season. It is all about keeping energy levels up and there will be other players who need the rest - Ian Hendon probably needs a break. There are too many games for footballers at this level.
"However, that win should give us some much required confidence out on the pitch and it is a happy day at last!"
The away manager Barry Hunter of Rushden and Diamonds told there Official website:
"Obviously we played a major part in our own downfall. It wasn't a good day from start to finish as we still could have done enough to win the game."
Barry was asked if the dressing room was down after the defeat. "So they should be down coming here and losing 2 - 1. It's not acceptable. That's life and they know it! If they don't do the right things then they have to take what comes to them.
The first goal was a freak goal. I've said nothing to Jamie because he knows what he's done and he'll see it on TV over and over again. So what can I say? We are going to need him to play now that Woody is injured.
For the second goal we allowed him (Hendon) just to take his time and cross the ball. He's a good player and he can pick his spot. The big lad headeball came in too easily."
When questioned about the similarity to the Rochdale d it in . The performance Barry responded by saying "You can't compare the two performances. At Rochdale we were excellent. Today we were'nt! The two performances were totally different. Today we could have got something from the game even though we may not have deserved to. We were looking to win this game."
Drewe Broughton was sent off towards the end of the game and Barry thought hard before he gave his thoughts. " I have to be careful what I say here but he's let people down. If I find out that he's done what I think he's done then I'll have to deal with it. I'll address it when I've seen what's happened. I don't want to stand here and talk about him. That's the end of it!"
Finally, Barry said that he was now off to the hospital to visit the injure Andy Woodman.
