Brabin content as play-offs secured

Robbie Willmott scored twice, while Claude Gnakpa was also on target as Town eased past their already-relegated opponents.

Brabin said: “We didn’t want to go into the play-offs fighting to get into the play-offs.

“We’ve worked on things, picked teams that I’ve believed are good enough to win games.

“I thought we were fantastic. We are playing a good type of football and I’m delighted with the lads.”

Striker Lloyd Owusu was back in the starting line-up for the first time since Brabin took over and led the line with this typical enthusiasm and hunger.

After leaving him out in recent weeks, Brabin was delighted with the response he got from his veteran forward.

He continued: “It was important that I got the group on a level pegging, see what they are all capable of.

“Players who had probably nailed down their positions are looking over their shoulders a little bit and players who haven’t been playing are coming to the forefront.

“The squad is at a good level and are competing for places. I spoke to Lloyd and he’s disappointed as he wanted to play every single game.

“I’ve been honest with him, (told him) the next few games you’re not in my thoughts, get yourself ready for Eastbourne and Histon, and he’s been called upon.”

Both Willmott and Gnakpa were restored to the starting line-up too, with the wingers thrilling the Kenilworth Road faithful at times.

Brabin said: “Claude I think is another one, who, what a good player he can be.

“I spent a bit of time talking to him. He’s responded and he was outstanding. Robbie has a bit of an advantage as he’s played for me before and knows what I want. I know what he’s capable of and he was brilliant.”

In truth, Hatters could have easily doubled their winning margin on the day, with both Owusu and Gnakpa hitting the woodwork, other chances were missed, while Borough keeper Rikki Banks was in inspired form, particularly in the second half.

Brabin said: “I think goalkeepers are looking for a big move somewhere. We’re getting the scouts and the agents coming to watch us as we’re getting the best out of keepers at the moment.

“He pulled off some great saves, but we’re playing good, flowing football, creating chances and I’m sure that the goals will come.”

Midfielder Keith Keane didn’t appear for the second half, replaced by Adam Newton, but Brabin confirmed it was nothing serious.

He added: “It was a precaution, He had a bit of a dead leg for the last 10 minutes of the half and was in a bit of discomfort.

“Keano being Keano he wanted to play on, but I just decided to take him off.

“We’ve had some bad luck in terms of injuries over the last few weeks, with Danny Crow and Freddie Murray and I didn’t want to risk that. I thought Newton came on and did brilliantly though.”