Ross Doohan is determined for Tranmere Rovers to ‘go back to basics’ ahead of Saturday’s Sky Bet League Two clash with Northampton Town.
The 23-year-old goalkeeper has been in fine form for the Whites this season, keeping 13 clean sheets in his 28 league appearances this term.
In total, Micky Mellon’s men have registered 17 shutouts in 34 fourth tier matches during the 2021/22 campaign – a record matched only by this weekend’s opponents.
Rovers have conceded in each of their previous four outings, with Doohan hopeful that the team can again make a habit of frustrating opponents within the final third of the pitch.
“We had the great defensive record but, in the last couple of games, it has gotten away. We need to put that in the past now and try to get back to what we do best,” he told the local media when previewing Saturday’s clash with the Cobblers.
The Celtic loanee added: “We’ve not really changed too much from the tough run of results we’ve had. We need to stay together, trust everyone and go back to the basics of what we were doing a few weeks ago to put us in the position we’re in.
“You don’t get too high when you’re winning and you don’t get too low when you’re losing. There are lots of ups and downs in football, and there are still a lot of games to be played.
“You’re always going to look at the table, but our main focus has to be ourselves. We can only affect what we do. I’m very confident in the group of players we have here.”
This weekend sees second and third in the division go head-to-head as Rovers make the trip to Sixfields Stadium.
With 12 games now remaining in the regular season, Doohan is all too aware of how vital securing all three points could be when taking on Jon Brady's side.
“Right now, we’re at the stage where every game is crucial. Every week is a must-win,” admitted the shot-stopper.
“It’s going to be a tough game, with two good sides going at it. We need to stay focused on Saturday’s game and kick on again from there.”