RICHIE Wellens has applauded the efforts of Theo Robinson and Danny Rose, who both made their first starts for Swindon Town during Saturday’s trip to Milton Keynes Dons.

Rose had already appeared off the bench twice prior to the weekend contest at Stadium MK, having signed from Portsmouth on a free until the end of the season in January, while deadline day addition Robinson appeared in red for the first time after switching from Southend United on loan.

While neither managed to score, boss Wellens stated the pair were part of a solid team display from Town, which resulted in their third successive win away from home.

In the eyes of many, Town’s real test will occur tomorrow as promotion hopefuls Forest Green Rovers visit the Energy Check County Ground.

Having failed to score in half of their home fixtures, Wellens hopes Robinson’s addition in particular can help his side get rid of the shackles established since the start of the season.

He said: “Theo was outstanding on Saturday. He was a starting point for every point of pressure.

“When the ball went up to him, he held it up, he bought fouls and brought people into play.

“As a lad, I know him and I know what he brings. He has settled straight into the dressing room as that’s the kind of character he is.

“I thought from him to Lawrence Vigouroux – at the other end of the pitch – everyone was very good.

“We only allowed Milton Keynes three shots on goal – and they were from our mistakes.

“From Vigouroux all the way to Robinson, the work-rate was very good and we obviously had quality moments as well.”

Wellens was also encouraged by Rose’s contribution to the team and highlighted his ability to win second balls and keep play moving in the right direction.

Rose had played just one Football League game this season prior to his arrival at the County Ground.

And Wellens suggested game time at a high tempo can improve his performance levels ahead of Rovers’ visit tomorrow.

“In the first half, I thought Danny was good. He filled pockets and won a lot of second balls and got us playing,” said Wellens.

“He has not played for a long time at this tempo, so I am hoping those 65 minutes will stand him in good stead.”