Luton boss Jones: Cobblers showed us why they are champions

Nathan Jones took charge of Luton in January. Picture by Liam Smith

Zander Diamond and John Marquis both struck in the first-half and those goals were enough to ease the Cobblers to a deserved three points as Luton struggled to once test Northampton keeper Adam Smith.

Jones spoke honestly and candidly afterwards and the Luton manager was under no illusions that his side had been second best throughout.

“They showed first-half why they’re champions, if I’m honest,” said Jones afterwards.

“I would like to bemoan the way we went about our business first-half but let’s give credit to them because they showed why they’re champions – they pressed us and they outworked us.

“They did all the hard, ugly things so much better than we did and that’s why they won it.

“I’m glad we played them to be honest because it’s gauge of where we want to be.

“They’ve been the best side all season and the league doesn’t lie.

“I said the other day that I thought Oxford are the best footballing side in the league but these are the most complete side in terms of how they press, how they work, how they have a threat and how they can score goals.

“Full credit to Chris Wilder for sending out a team week in, week out who have won the league.”

On the game itself, Jones added: “Chances-wise, they scored from a set-piece which gave them a great start but that was poor marking from us.

“We probably had the most clear chance of the half but realistically they were better than us.

“Northampton are very good from set-pieces - they score from corners, from free-kicks and from throw-ins and the goal gave them a great start.

“They never really looked back from that and that’s a lack of discipline from us.”

Jones also confirmed Danny Green has suffered a suspected broken leg following a strong challenge with Josh Lelan but the Luton boss had no issues with the Northampton man’s challenge.

He added: “It’s unfortunate for him because he’s come back in and has worked hard but that’s given him a big setback and that’s disappointing.

“I’ve looked at it again and there’s no blame on the lad (Lelan) whatsoever, if anything he’s probably protecting himself because Green’s gone in a bit more ferocious and it’s a good 50-50 challenge and sometimes these things happen.”