Firstly, I’d like to spare a moments thought for one of our players who was missing yesterday to be with his family, everybody is thinking about them all and send all the love in the world their way.

Last week my cousin who regularly came to support Darlaston over the last 4 seasons passed away, yesterday his son Jack came to watch on his own without his Dad, absolutely heartbreaking - RIP Chris.

Respect to the supporters of Long Eaton who came in numbers and made it a great atmosphere - fantastic support and great to see.

Thank you to our supporters who were very vocal in their support all day, I hope you enjoyed the day.

Credit to Brad, his staff and his players who made yesterday a very hard game. Last season Brad had a whole season managing at step 3 with Long Eaton and we came up the hard way from step 5, so yesterday was a huge test of how far we’ve come over the last four months.

I’ve seen Brad say in his post match interview that Long Eaton were miles off where they’ve been so far this season but having watched them three times myself before yesterday, they were, in my opinion, actually significantly better yesterday - that said, it’s not for me to disagree with anyone about their own team, I simply thought on the day we worked hard and smart and had a say in the result as well.

Our week had been disjointed with players who needed minutes getting games elsewhere, injured players getting treatment and recovery time and our fit players getting a mini rest after the first third of the season - the wear and tear on their bodies is considerable compared to any previous season - it’s hard work trying to keep all the plates spinning so we could have a squad ready and competitive for yesterday.

Positives for me; big Jimmy with a fine save in the first half and his 10th clean sheet of the season, the back four who were strong, disciplined and organised, our midfield two who were both outstanding, forwards who attacked all day and more importantly defended equally hard and finally the subs Botty, `(Mitch Botfield) Bails (Bailey Storey) and JD (Jack Downing) who ensured we won the game with great energy and quality in the last 30 minutes - so yes, they were all positive!

This week we had another approach from a local step 4 side for one of our players who I’m extremely happy to say decided to stay with us.

Wednesday we’re back at home to Ansty Nomads, we’re looking forward to another fun night under the lights.

Hopefully see you then

Dean