PHIL Simkin was a satisfied man after the Magpies responded to last weekend’s drubbing by AFC Bournemouth with a much-needed confidence-boosting victory at Bridport.

The Dorchester chief knew his side would be under the microscope going into Tuesday night’s friendly given their performance against Eddie Howe’s Cherries a few days before.

And in Bridport they met a side that gave as good as they got, going toe-to-toe with the Magpies for the majority of the match before a few late goals saw the visitors run out 5-1 winners.

Speaking to Echosport, Simkin was happy with the way his charges bounced back after a difficult 72 hours.

“I’m pleased we played the game, pleased to have played well, and pleased to have won after the pressure we all felt from Saturday,” he said.

“Before the game, I just said to the players that the football fraternity in this area and further out would be looking at us to see how we reacted, and we reacted very well.

“On a difficult surface against what is always a competitive side, I thought we played some exceptional football.

“Dan Smith and Ben Joyce were different class – they were on a different planet altogether.

“I was delighted we scored a few goals and I thought Will Agbo in midfield was excellent.

“You can see he has been at a pro club, and he’s not flash, he gets it and passes it.”

Trialist Agbo netted twice on the night, Joyce and Dan Smith scored their first goals for the club, and Jake Smeeton curled in a superb free-kick.

Simkin also snapped up former Horsham, Havant & Waterlooville and Worthing utility man Ryan Woodford following the final whistle.

And on his new signing, Simkin added: “He was captain of Horsham and you can see that he’s been about.

“He can play across the back and in front of the back four, and in our league someone like that is so handy.

“He’ll certainly be useful in the league we’re playing in.”

Contrary to previous reports, the Magpies will be playing Portland United next Tuesday (July 29) at the Avenue (7.45pm).

*Dorchester Town Reserves host Ringwood Reserves in a pre-season friendly tonight (7.45pm).