By halftime, the U’s had jumped out to a 3-0 lead with to goals from Owen Dale, Mark Harris, and Cameron Brannagan.
Late in the second half, Harris scored United’s fourth goal of the game with a strongly deflected shot, keeping United tied with sixth-place Lincoln City in terms of points.
“I think we’ve played as well as that in the last two, but we just haven’t got the goals to show for it,” stated U’s head coach Buckingham. “That was the pleasing thing today.”
“To ensure that we stay on course, the performance was excellent, the four goals were undoubtedly goals, the clean sheet was a plus, and the three points are the most satisfying thing.”
“That’s how we have to end this season and that’s what we have to take to Burton right now. Our desired style of football play has been demonstrated.
We’re definitely in that right now. I mentioned coming into this stage of the season in a strong position.
“We won’t overdo it, but as we move forward and focus on Burton, we must make sure we put in just as much effort as we have over the last few weeks.”
United achieved their first clean sheet at home since defeating Burton Albion 3-0 in the middle of December by keeping the Cod Army out.
According to Buckingham, when people discuss a playing style, they frequently overlook the other aspect of it and instead focus on what we want to accomplish with the ball most of the time.
“We talk a lot about this, but if you don’t do the other side, which is hard work and role comprehension, you never let the ball get to you, and it always puts you in a great position.
On chasing down the Imps for the final play-off spot, Buckingham said: “It’s not about looking at them, it’s about making sure we do what we need to do.
“I’m delighted we’ve been able to put that on at home because we’ve done that away in the past couple of games, but haven’t got the goals that we deserve.
“It’s a good start and sets us up well for Burton, and we’ll do our best to come back from there with three points.
“Then we have three very important home games, which we’ll be doing as much as we can, together with the fans.”
He added: “It’s always enjoyable after a win, especially after a 4-0 win, and it puts a smile on everybody’s face. I’m sure the players will report back with a spring in their step, but we know how short football is and how quickly that can turn.
“It’s about making sure we build on what we’ve just seen, and over the last couple of weeks, and that when we face those three home games, we’re in a very strong position to keep it in our hands.”
