HE may just be 18, but Matt Richards already knows what it takes to reach the play-offs after the experience of missing out last season, writes Derek Davis.

HE may just be 18, but Matt Richards already knows what it takes to reach the play-offs after the experience of missing out last season, writes Derek Davis.

Part of the reason for Town's failure then was the inability to beat teams like Rotherham but Town went some way to putting that right by grinding out a 2-1 win over the Millers on Saturday.

Richards said: "The important thing was we got the win even if it was not in the best circumstances.

"We were a bit patchy to start with but we improved as the game went along.

"In the end we were in control for most of the time and we deserved the three points.

"Losing to teams like Rotherham last season stopped us from reaching the play-offs.

"This year we need to put that right and with the run we are on at the moment, it bodes well.

"If we carry on winning three out of four games then we will be right back up there."

With Chris Makin injured, Richards has been a regular at left-back for the past seven games.

The teenager said: "I have had a good run in the team which has been good for me and it is probably important that we have a settled side and get some more consistency. I enjoy playing alongside Georges [Santos], he has helped me a lot."

And the youngster was delighted to see Pablo Counago net another two goals to go top of the Town's scorers with four in total, three from the penalty spot, after an eight-game drought.

Richards said: "It was brilliant to see Pablo score twice. He just needed to get off the mark earlier on and now they are flying in.

"He is an important part of this side and when he is scoring we are doing well."

The defender has had to once again put behind him interest from other clubs with Newcastle United boss Sir Bobby Robson now known to be keen on the Ipswich Town 18-year-old.

Last season Leeds United and Southampton were both tracking the former county rugby player.