Darren Moore says his side put in a professional display to beat Northampton Town in Sky Bet League One.
Goals either side of half-time from Tyreece John-Jules and Joe Wright secured a 2-0 win over the cobblers, who had Shaun McWilliams sent off early on.
He said: “The red card had an impact on the game, it changed how they set up and allowed us to dominate possession and get in front.
“Once we got the goal it meant they had to come out and attack, and that left space and pockets for us to work in.
“We knew it would be difficult and that is why I had to try and rotate the group and make sure everyone stayed fresh.”
Defender Andy Butler came in for his first league start of the season at Sixfields, and Moore felt he more than proved his worth with an assured performance.
He added: “I thought it was the right type of game for Butts to come in, we had his leadership qualities to benefit from and he was brilliant.
“His handling of the game and the way he went about his business was spot on, I don’t usually like to single individuals out but he was excellent.”