Cobblers defender Nyatanga revels in Charlton victory, but warns of possible '˜twists and turns' ahead

The Barnsley loan man helped Town see off the Addicks to move up to 15th in Sky Bet League One, and seven points clear of the bottom four with just 10 games of the campaign remaining.

It is a very handy cushion to have at this stage of the season, but Nyatanga says he and his team-mates won’t be taking anything for granted.

Saturday’s was a much-needed win for the Cobblers off the back of last Tuesday’s disappointing 2-1 home loss to Oldham, and Nyatanga says the secret for safety is going to be keeping a level head.

“The result against Oldham on Tuesday wasn’t good, while the result on Saturday was very good, but you can’t get ahead of yourself either way,” said the former Wales international.

“You have to stay neutral and keep on working.

“There are things we can improve on from Saturday, we know that, and we now look to build on the win.

“Over the remainder of the season there are going to be many twists and turns along the way I am sure, but the main thing is we can win a few games.

“Everybody loves football because of those twists and turns, and the goal is to win as many games as we can, but League football is not easy.”

And he added: “Our home form had been good against the likes of Chesterfield and Swindon, but then we slipped up the other night against Oldham, and we weren’t happy with that, so it is good to get the win.

“I felt we dug in against Charlton, but showed a bit of quality as well and we are pleased that we have got the three points.

“I think we have always kept a level head, even when the results have gone against us, and we know our destiny is in our own hands and that is the most important thing.

“There are many games left, still many points on the board to play for, and we need to stay positive, stick together and try and build on this win.”

A haul of 51 points is seen by many observers being the ‘magic number’ to secure safety, which means Town need another three wins, or a couple of wins an a couple of draws to stay up, but Nyatanga isn’t going to start worrying where those points can be picked up.

He’s just concentrating on trying to win every game the Cobblers play.

“To be honest, I think everybody is focused on winning and getting into a winning habit,” said the 28-year-old, who is on loan until the end of the season.

“If we do that then everything will take care of itself.”

The Cobblers have a free week before travelling to AFC Wimbledon on Saturday, and then hosting relegation-haunted Port Vale at Sixfields next Tuesday.