NUNEATON Town manager Kevin Wilkin experienced a dramatic and energy-sapping weekend in Cumbria but he returned happy for two reasons. Wilkin witnessed his Boro side show their grit and determination on Saturday by coming from a goal down with 10-men to snatch a valuable point. And the following day he endured a stamina testing 10-mile trek around Skiddaw View and the River Derwent over the Cumbrian Hills that was more arduous but less frantic. The 1-1 draw had its heart-stopping moments for the Boro chief after centre-back Gareth Dean was sent off early on and then he had to wait until the dying throes before Andy Brown’s equaliser. “The walk on Sunday was definitely more relaxing than the football and a lot more peaceful,” said Wilkin. “But it was a tough game against Workington and I thought the lads showed real character and commitment. “Being down to 10 men for 80 minutes and a goal down into the bargain for around 30 is not what you want, especially after a four-hour 230-mile trip. “Yet we did really well. After the Hinckley disappointment, we needed a lift and this performance gave it us.” Wilkin felt the officials were not the best he’s seen this season – while he had no major complaints about Dean’s dismissal he was fuming that two penalty appeals for his side were turned down. “There was contact between Gareth and their striker Dave McNiven, who is an experienced lad and knew what he was doing when he went down,” said Wilkin. “Some refs would have cautioned Gareth but unfortunately this one just took out the red. “What was frustrating was he chose not to give us a penalty when Adam Walker’s shot was plainly handled on the line and then gave a free-kick on the edge of the area after Wes York was brought down inside the box by the same sort of offence that had Gareth red carded.” Wilkin heaped praise on injury-hit Gary Mills, who made his league debut, substitute Mark Albrighton and the returning Brown. “Obviously we had to re-organise and poor Danny Glover had to come off and Brights went on and did really well considering he’s not had much pitch time,” he added. “The same applies to Gary Mills. He was outstanding while Browny made his mark and was claiming the goal although I was just pleased the ball went in. I think all three are major assets to the club and will play significant roles over the next three months or so.” The club are now awaiting the referee’s report on Dean’s sending-off to see whether he will get a one or three-match suspension. Wilkin added: “I don’t know how the referee will deem it. It was a straight red card – which in most terms means a three-game ban – or that it being a professional foul he will get away with one. Whatever it is he will be out for at least one fixture so it was good to see Brights come in and produce a commanding performance alongside Guy.” | 
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