Phil Parkinson declared himself proud as punch after City claimed their second win in four days.

Nahki Wells netted the only goal to sink Northampton at Sixfields last night and cement their place in League Two’s leading pack.

The victory, City’s second away from home in the league, sets them up for three more games on the road coming up.

Parkinson said: “We have to start seeing a consistency on our travels and I was so pleased with the lads. We needed an Oxford away type of performance and we got that.

“It was a massive test because Northampton are a decent team at home. It was a night when we had to defend the long throws and be strong.

“All the back four and the midfield players were really good dealing with their style of play – and when it was time to show quality, we did.”

Wells poached his tenth goal of the season to win it and City should have scored more, with James Hanson guilty of missing a great chance.

Parkinson said: “We probably should have killed them off in the second half. But sometimes a 1-0 win tells you a lot about your team.

“You have to show character and concentrate right to the last minute and we did that. Our focus was there to the last whistle.

“It’s hard to single players out but I was really pleased with Garry Thompson’s performance. He was very strong, worked really hard and typified the performance.

“There’s nothing better for the mood of the players than any away win, especially at a challenging place like Northampton.

“They really put you through it but we handled everything they threw at us and I’m very proud.”

The only downside was a fifth booking for Wells for going into the away crowd to celebrate and he is now banned for Saturday’s trip to Burton.

Parkinson admitted the striker must learn from collecting cheap yellow cards.

He said: “I don’t want to take the gloss off his night but some of the bookings, like when he kicked the ball away at Notts County, come back to cost you.

“But what I liked about his display was that he upped his level again after he scored. A winning mentality is important because it’s all about the team.”

Recovering midfielder Gary Jones also made the trip, although he was not involved in the game.

Parkinson said: “It’s important to get him back with the team. He’s a real influence to have round the dressing room.

“We decided not to put him on the bench but give him some extra training and each day he’s getting stronger and stronger.

“Gaz is a top-class player but I’ve got to say Ricky (Ravenhill) and Nathan Doyle were really solid. When you see a good player coming back, it inspires you to keep your place.”

Meanwhile, City’s youngsters are in action at Valley Parade tonight when they host Grimsby in the FA Youth Cup.