United boss Gary McAllister hailed his players after Tuesday's terrific 1-0 victory at Doncaster Rovers.

A stunning free-kick from Alan Sheehan secured the points as United battled to a vital victory against third-placed Rovers.

"It was a big game for big players and we had some big performances," said a delighted Macca.

"We rode our luck on occasions - they started second half brightly - but it was two teams who were committed and it was a good game for the neutral.

"They have a style and an ethos, and we're getting there. It was a decent game to watch.

"We jumped up a slot. It was a game in hand which we won, and now we move onto the next one."

It was a battling performance from United, who defended well when under pressure and moved the ball quickly to hit Doncaster on the break

"During those teams when we had to defend we had people throwing their bodies and heads in front," said Mac. 

"If we'd have done that at Port Vale when they scored three times...it shows we have learned from that.

"Off the back of that we had some good openings, and we countered well."

The game was settled by a screamer of a free-kick from Sheehan, and the manager was full of praise for the young Irishman.

"It was a fantastic goal," he said. "I'm pleased for Alan Sheehan. He arrived from reserve team football and it was clear he was pretty leggy at first.

"But he's worked hard to get to this level and he's showed the qualities he's got. It's a big step from reserve team to competitive football."

The United manager was also forced into making three changes with Darren Kenton, David Prutton, and Rui Marques all missing out through injury. Frazer Richardson, Paul Huntington, and Jonathan Douglas were the men who came in.

"We had to make three changes, but we have a squad capable of that," said the boss. "I was very pleased with the guys who came in, but I trust them. They have worked hard in training.

"Darren has a niggle in his hamstring. We've got a lot of games and if he'd have played he may have done something serious.

"With a bit of time and treatment we'll have the players back again."