Orient boss reflects on win against Morecambe and Lloyd James returning to the team

East London Advertiser: Morecambe's Alan Goodall shows his frustration after they concede an own goal against Leyton Orient (pic: Simon O'Connor).Morecambe's Alan Goodall shows his frustration after they concede an own goal against Leyton Orient (pic: Simon O'Connor). (Image: Simon O'Connor Photography)

Leyton Orient player-manager Kevin Nolan praised his players for pushing on and eventually beating Morecambe on Saturday.

The O’s won the match at Brisbane Road after Alan Goodall’s clearance from Jerome Binnom-Williams hit team mate Ryan Edwards and went past substitute goalkeeper Kieron O’Hara.

O’Hara had been excellent before conceding in the 81st minute as he saved Jay Simpson’s first half penalty and made numerous other top drawer stops.

Even though he was pleased they never gave up, the former West Ham United captain admitted they’ll be working hard to improve in the final third this week.

“You have to think how can we probe them and get in behind and give ourselves the best opportunity to score a goal,” said Nolan.

“I think what we did, and what I was really pleased with, was that we didn’t stop or give up. Not every time but the majority of the time we did the right things and that was pleasing.

“We just didn’t do it quick enough or with the conviction we needed. That is something we will be trying to work on the training ground to get better.”

Lloyd James was introduced at half time, along with Sammy Moore, to make his first appearance of 2016.

The midfielder had been out with an achilles problem since December 19, but has worked his way back up to speed this month.

He played against Cambridge United in the ‘Final Third’ Development League on Tuesday before returning against Morecambe last weekend.

Nolan added: “The reason we made the substitutions was because we had a lot of the ball and we know Lloyd is fantastic on the ball. His technical and passing ability speaks for itself and I’m delighted to have him back.

“He played really well in midweek and did well on Saturday, but he’ll continue to get better. He will be a big asset for me and the rest of the team for the last nine games.”

Orient’s player-manager also confirmed Jack Payne missed out due to the loan ruling and that Bradley Pritchard wasn’t involved due to the strength of his squad.

“With the loan system we couldn’t have another loan player on the bench so that is why Jack had to drop out and Bradley missing out was due to our decision,” said Nolan.