Nugent took charge of the first-team on Saturday following Kenny Jackett's resignation as manager on Friday.
He masterminded a 2-2 draw at Doncaster, and insists there are plenty of positives for his side to build on when top-of-the-table United head to the Liberty Stadium this week.
"It has been a very difficult time emotionally for the players, but they showed great mental strength and character at Doncaster," he insisted.
"It was probably a case of two points dropped after being in front twice, but I couldn't really be disappointed with any aspect of the performance.
"Sometimes in adversity players come together a little bit more, and I thought we produced a really spirited display which I hope we can carry forward onto Tuesday night."
Scunthorpe look set to be without full-back Cliff Byrne for the game.
He suffered a facial injury in a collision with Iron goalkeeper Joe Murphy in Saturday's win over Rotherham, and has a suspescted broken cheekbone.
He masterminded a 2-2 draw at Doncaster, and insists there are plenty of positives for his side to build on when top-of-the-table United head to the Liberty Stadium this week.
"It has been a very difficult time emotionally for the players, but they showed great mental strength and character at Doncaster," he insisted.
"It was probably a case of two points dropped after being in front twice, but I couldn't really be disappointed with any aspect of the performance.
"Sometimes in adversity players come together a little bit more, and I thought we produced a really spirited display which I hope we can carry forward onto Tuesday night."
Scunthorpe look set to be without full-back Cliff Byrne for the game.
He suffered a facial injury in a collision with Iron goalkeeper Joe Murphy in Saturday's win over Rotherham, and has a suspescted broken cheekbone.