PHIL Simkin was over the moon last night after the Magpies pulled off a vital victory in their fight for survival.

Sixteen-year-old substitute Dan Munday was the hero, grabbing the winner in the 87th minute, but it was the all-round team performance that left the Dorchester boss full of hope come the final whistle.

Speaking after the 2-1 home success over fellow strugglers Tonbridge Angels, Simkin told Echosport: “All the heartbreak of the last couple of months is worth it for times like this.

“The team we had last year was probably the best the club has ever had but there is no point in harping on about that anymore.

“We have a new side now and when you look out there and see the improvements some of these young lads have made, it is just fantastic to see.

“To put the heavy defeat we suffered at Havant behind them so quickly and come out and put on a performance like that against a decent Tonbridge side really does show great character.

“There are going to be more tough times ahead but if we can go on now and put back-to-back wins together by beating Concord Rangers at home on Saturday then we will have a chance.”

The Magpies remain bottom of the pile in Skrill South but are now just one point adrift of safety.

Commenting further on yesterday evening’s success, Simkin added: “I thought we showed a great work ethic throughout.

“Their big centre forward caused a lot of problems but I thought Steve Walker and Mark Jermyn were both excellent and did not miss a thing.

“Brandon Goodship was a constant threat again and keeps getting sharper and sharper, and for Dan Munday, what a great way to start his career.

“They all did their bit including Ryan Case on his debut.

“Their left winger was a good player but Ryan did well against him and produced a great bit of skill and awareness to help set up the winner.”

Simkin is hoping to have a couple more players back for the clash with Concord including Josh Wakefield, who missed the Tonbridge triumph due a dead leg.