MANAGER Brian Little wore the same broad smile that was also spread across the faces of his players and supporters after this vital success at local rivals Chester City.

"We rode our luck at times and made more mistakes that I cared for, but we also showed a tremendous battling spirit that made sure we came out of this game with the three points.

"We didn't play overly well and were our own worst enemies, making little mistakes in areas where should have been tighter.

"The result is fantastic, because by not playing on Saturday, you know the position from the day before, which puts a different slant on the game.

"That can mean more pressure to win or as yesterday, when most of our rivals didn't get a result, then you have an opportunity to get back at them.

"It's another step in the right direction, we are now down to one point off the team above us, but we still have a lot of catching up to do.

"The result today was all important and if there was a difference between the two sides, then it was that our two finishes were better than theirs.

"But I have to say I don't think we didn't play very well and I'm relieved at the result."

The boss also reserved a special mention for keeper Gavin Ward, who kept his new team in front:

"Gavin had a good day and that's nice for him, returning to place where he used to work. He pulled off a couple of really good saves and was in the right place to deny them on another couple of occasions.

"Martin and I turned to each other a few times and said that if they had got level, then there would have only been on outcome, as they were getting on top.

"So those saves were vital for us, but we said at half time 'don't get too frustrated and don't get too embarrased - keep hitting the forwards' , because we always felt we would get more chances.

"I was looking at Hally and Procts to get on the end of another ball and happily Michael did!"

Brian also pinpointed another aspect of the team's attitude which he feels will only benefit the club:

"We have a good spirit, which I think is very important. Its top of my list and, thankfully, we have it. Although the second thing would be to try and play better, while winning games."