Since the home defeat at the hands of Southport, Vics have won 2-1 at Runcorn in the Cheshire Cup and 3-2 at Welling in the league.

"After the Southport game I gave the lads a bit of a rocket and it got to them. At Runcorn and Welling they went out and played to their ability, which delighted me," explained Gardiner.

"Having both John (Robertson) and Steve (Walters) back on Saturday was great because they are such good leaders.

"It is important to have characters like that.

"Steve was lucky to be on the pitch when he scored because he was flagging and I was preparing to bring him off, but he will regain match fitness soon enough."

The performance of Chris Duffy in the two games since the Southport defeat particularly impressed Gardiner: "Chris was as at fault for the two goals against Southport but since then he's put in two great showings.

"Unfortunately, he got frustrated with himself in the Southport game and got booked, which means he is out for the Colwyn Bay match. I would have liked to have him available but we have quality players who can come in."

As for the Welling win: "We got in a commanding position but let them back in the game each time. I must give the lads credit though, because every time they got a kick in the teeth we went up the other end and regained the lead.

"I just wish we could have taken a two goal cushion."

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