PAUL Cook hailed his side’s character as he saw Accrington Stanley come from behind to deny Shrewsbury and his former boss Graham Turner promotion on Saturday.

Cook played under Turner at Wolves during the early days of his career but a 1-1 draw at the Crown Ground meant his old manager had to wait secure the Shrews’ place in League One.

A goal from former Stanley striker Terry Gornell would have been enough for the visitors to seal promotion but Bryan Hughes came off the bench to level for the Reds.

“We never buckled, that’s where the character of the lads comes out,” said Cook, whose Stanley side remain in 12th position in the League Two table.

“We’d like to wish Graham Turner and their club every success, I’m sure Shrewsbury will go up.

“It was a bit funny on the touchline because you feel like you can’t really say anything, it’s a bit like going back to see your old school teacher! He’s a great man.

“But we defended our home ground and represented our own club really well.

“I don’t think anyone could deny that we were good value for a point.

“We created a lot of chances and the lads are working really hard. I’m really pleased.

“In the last two or three games against the bigger clubs we’ve shown some really good signs.”