Delighted manager Gary Johnson praised a 'totally professional' display by his Robins as they defeated Barnet 2-0 at the Hive Stadium.
Kevin Dawson and Carl Winchester scored the goals in London to move Cheltenham seven points off the play-offs to the delight of Johnson.
"I thought we put in a magnificent effort first half. Before we scored we had two or three really good chances too," he said.
"The first half was all about pressing and getting opportunities. In the second half a team with the wind at home is going to kick it forward towards their big 'uns - we had to be ready for that.
"We were totally professional and I don't recall (Scott) Flinders making a save.
"I thought we saw it out really professionally, so fair play to the lads, and we scored two great goals in front of our wonderful Christmas fans.
"We knew it was a big game. This was a six-pointer because we didn't want to get dragged back down with them."
Johnson also praised man-of-the-match Nigel Atangana as he excelled on his first start for several months.
"He had a super game," said Johnson. "He has had a bit of an up and down season with injuries and he lost a bit of confidence - and he is a confidence player.
"After his injury he found himself a long way from the team. I have had to see him as part of the group again, but I felt today was the right time and I felt he played very well.
"I felt I needed some legs up top and Pelly gives you that. But he is also a good athlete and I thought he had a fantastic game.
"He worked his socks off with Mo - I felt they were unplayable and relentless up top."