David Artell felt Grimsby were dominant in their 1-0 home victory over Newport which moved them back into the Sky Bet League Two play-off places.
The Mariners boss can see a few more twists and turns in the race for a top-seven finish coming with eight games to go, but his side did what they needed to do against Newport to get back to winning ways.
George McEachran’s deflected free-kick in the 64th minute was all that separated the two sides in Cleethorpes, but Artell felt his side could have easily won by more goals.
“I think it was the most comprehensive 1-0 win we’ve had all season,” said Artell.
“We were totally dominant until the last 10 to 15 minutes when it got a bit nervy.
“If it was 3-0 at half-time, I don’t think anyone would’ve complained, but in the end, it’s all the same; it goes down to another three points on the board, and deservedly so.”
Grimsby’s play-off destiny is in their own hands now as they hold the final spot, with massive games away at direct competition in Colchester and Crewe to come next.
“A lot can still change in eight games,” said Artell.
“Two weeks ago, we’d beaten Walsall, and we were thinking we could even get into the automatics, but then we had two defeats in a week, and everyone says our play-off chances are over.
“It helps to win, obviously, but even at this stage, I don’t see these games as season-defining, and the last eight are no bigger than the first eight in reality; it is just about getting better each time.
“Take the two games against Newport… it was really tight at their place, and we relied on Jordan making some big saves, but today, we showed the progress we’ve made because we were much more in control.
“The character and resilience the team have shown is exemplary. We still have eight or nine injuries, but those ready turn up and give their all.”
The visitors had one or two chances of their own, but they could not hold too many grievances with the result as their away struggles continued.
“It’s always frustrating when you lose,” added Newport boss Nelson Jardim. “Still, we showed a side of being hard to beat, and there were spells when we defended well.
“How we conceded the goal was frustrating, and set-plays, in general, are costing us a lot of points away.
“We were still in the game at the end, and the changes improved the team while not being able to score a goal.
“We have more games to play away, and if we keep on improving, hopefully we’ll finish the season with some good results on the road.”
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