Securing EFL spot is 'everything': JD

An emotional John Doolan said securing Accrington Stanley's EFL safety in his first full season in charge of the club meant 'everything' to him.

- RICHARD PARTINGTON

Ben Woods’ stunning strike handed the Reds a 1-0 win at the Bescot Stadium against promotion-chasing Walsall and guaranteed the club their place among the League Two contenders next season.

It’s been a tough league campaign for the Reds and Doolan has had to balance the demands of football management with private difficulties of his own off the field.

“It means everything to me to be mathematically safe,” he said. “I've had things that have gone on privately in my life and I've just got to stand up and be counted myself, and I have today. I had my nephews here and that was just great. I can’t speak highly enough of the board, the club, the fans most of the fans have been great. Obviously you always have your keyboard warriors but it’s not about me, so I try and put me my own things to one side and I try and do a job and try and do the best for this club.

“That's all I want and the club is where it is for a reason, because of the effort that gets put in. But I just wanted to share those moments with my nephews and my sons. I’m just so pleased to get it done for the club, for Andy Holt and the board.”