PORTLAND United interim boss Gary Bailey has hailed his players for their response since he rejoined the club in late January.

Bailey replaced the sacked Simon Browne less than 24 hours after the latter's dismissal and is unbeaten in three games in charge, securing draws against Shaftesbury Town and Lymington Town before beating Amesbury Town 6-1.

Bailey, who won the Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division with the Blues last season, told Echosport the players’ attitude has been particularly impressive in his new tenure.

He said: “The attitude has been terrific. They’ve responded well to the training sessions that Stuart (Heath) and Chris (Wilson) have put on.

“The attendance has been very good and with two draws and a win I can’t speak highly enough of the response we’ve had from the players – hopefully they will carry on.

“They’ve set some standards and it’s hopefully about maintaining them.”

Bailey added that simplifying training may have been a key factor in the Blues' resurgence in form.

He said: “There’s no secret to it, no magic wand to wave. We’ve simplified things. We’ve given people jobs to do, which for the best part they’ve done.

“It’s just working hard for each other. They’re good players, they haven’t turned into bad ones. I think the players do appreciate that.

“There’s no magic formula. If players enjoy it that’s when you get the best out of them.

“We’ll take it one game at a time. We just ask they get the basics right and the rest hopefully takes care of itself.”