Rodgers hails Hornets keeper

22 March 2009 12:08
The 20-year-old, who was on the Blues' books as a schoolboy, denied David Norris twice and then kept out another effort from Pablo Counago.[LNB]But the best was yet to come when he showed lightning reflexes to tip away a scorching Alan Quinn effort and then parry another from Jon Stead.[LNB]Rodgers said: "Scott's kicking wasn't as good as normal and I told him so - I want him to feel he can still improve and progress.[LNB]"But overall he deserved his clean sheets after making some excellent saves.[LNB]"He's a wonderful prospect for the future and he's always willing to learn.[LNB]"He comes in every day with a hunger and determination and he's got all the attributes to be a top goalkeeper.[LNB]"He's a good athlete and gets around the box, but he also makes saves - which is the bottom line."[LNB]Rodgers admitted being proud and heartened by the way his side secured a point.[LNB]He continued: "We showed characteristics which are going to be very important if we're to be successful in the future.[LNB]"There was a steel and determination and some very good football moments, too. Overall, I'm very pleased with the progress we're making.[LNB]"It was a good point for us and maybe it could have been all three with a bit more quality in terms of our final pass."[LNB]Town boss Jim Magilton admitted his side are slipping 'further and further away' from the play-offs after dropping more points at Portman Road.[LNB]He said: "I didn't like our performance in the first half. We lacked a sense of purpose.[LNB]"We didn't take a risk on winning and maybe the exertions of playing in midweek caught up with both teams.[LNB]"There were a few choice words at half-time - we needed it more than them - and we needed to find a sense of purpose.[LNB]"After the break we had enough chances to win two games but their goalkeeper played very well and we just don't seem to have a killer-instinct at home.[LNB]"There always seems to be a sense of edginess or nervousness and it's so frustrating.[LNB]"We haven't had a real desire to go and stick the ball in the net.[LNB]"We've got to play with more urgency but there's enough experience and quality in the team - it shouldn't have to come through the coaching team.[LNB]"The lads ran themselves to a standstill and I can't fault their attitude and application.[LNB]"The play-offs are getting further and further away but I can't and won't concede that we're out of the race.[LNB]"We'll keep going and I certainly won't allow the season to peter out."[LNB][LNB]

Source: Team_Talk