MAGPIES’ chief Graham Kemp was taken aback by the support given to him by the Avenue faithful during their win over Hungerford Town.

The new manager was unveiled to the county town fans before his first home game in the hot seat as well as new signings Micky Hubbard and Chris Dillon, all of whom received a rousing ovation.

The Dorchester boss told Echosport: “The fans got behind everyone and when we scored it was great to see the lads celebrating together.

“It’s been a while since that has been around the club so it was nice for both the fans and the players.”

Kemp also revealed that since he has taken the job he has been firm but fair with his troops.

“We made it perfectly clear when I joined that the players can blame Phil (Simkin) if they want for the situation they are in but they’ve got to take equal responsibility,” he added.

“If a new manager comes in and things don’t change, who are they going to blame then?

“We have told them some home truths and they have taken it on board, there has been no sulking and you can see everyone’s bought into the system I want to play and the work-rate has been phenomenal.”

Commenting on the strong performances of both Hubbard and Dillon, he added: “You have to make the most of things when they are going your way but I haven’t hedged my bets with Micky and Chris, they are both good players and I know what I am going to get out of them. I have managed them before and there is no risk with them.”