JASON Matthews was blown away by his team’s fighting spirit in last night’s five-goal thriller against high-flying Bideford.

Following last Saturday’s 5-0 defeat against Stourbridge, the Weymouth player-boss was after a response and his troops did not disappoint on a barmy night for football at the Bob Lucas Stadium.

Driving rain and gale force winds battered both sets of players in the Southern Premier Division clash but the Terras came out of it the stronger side, much to the delight of the home faithful.

Reflecting on the 3-2 win, Matthews told Echosport: “I was hoping for a reaction and the boys delivered.

“We knew it was going to be a tough and physical game and we stood firm.

“The conditions were horrific and to play against a gale force wind the way we did in the second half was a fantastic effort.”

George Rigg and Stewart Yetton grabbed the goals for the Terras but they did lose Jake Green to a straight red card late on. Bideford also had Rob Farkins sent off in what was a frantic finale.

Matthews added: “Jake had a rush of blood and to lose him now for three games is a massive blow.

“We are hoping to keep him until the end of the season but we are still waiting to hear from Bristol Rovers.”

Another loanee that was in the thick of things was Torquay United winger Niall Thompson.

Commenting on his performance, Matthews said: “Niall’s pace is a huge asset for us and I was delighted with his contribution.”