Leiston boss Steve Ball hailed his side’s victory over high-flying Dulwich Hamlet as ‘his best result so far’.

Leiston boss Steve Ball hailed his side’s victory over high-flying Dulwich Hamlet as, ‘his best result so far’.

The Suffolk side beat the Londoners 2-1 in a rip-roaring clash at Victory Road on Tuesday night – and that after coming from a goal down.

It’s now five wins in seven for Ball since he took over from Steve Pitt – a good record, but not one he is getting complacent about.

“It’s been a real difficult season for the club, players and fans,” he said, (Ball is the club’s third manager so far this season).

“But for me the performance and result against Dulwich was not only the biggest scalp so far, but also the best performance.

“It was a sticky pitch again and I was aware that against Lowestoft on Boxing Day we didn’t compete physically on a similar pitch. But we did against Dulwich and showed a real desire.

“We are moving up the table and I just want us to consolidate. When I took over we were in the relegation places, now we are about 12 points clear which is great.

“People will talk about play-offs, but my remit was to keep us in this league and that’s what I want to do.

“I was talking to a couple of the players after the game against Dulwich and they just said they were thoroughly enjoying their football. To me that is so important. We are non-league, not full-time, it’s vital players enjoy the game.”

Ball also paid tribute to his assistant and former Stanway Rovers boss Rob Bate who has made a good impression at Victory Road since he joined with Ball.

“I’ve known Rob many years and his professionalism is what shines through,” Ball said.

“He doesn’t shout from the roof-tops, he’s a sound guy and I know the players like him. He and Adam Tann (player/coach) are vital to my set-up.”

Ball is a full-time academy coach at Colchester United, coaching 12-16-year-olds.

He appreciates the flexibility shown to him by Tony Humes (academy manager) as he balances both jobs he loves.

“Tony has been fantastic with me,” Ball said.

“I still do the hours, but I’ve got a degree of flexibility, Colchester are a fantastic club.”

On Saturday Leiston are at home again – this time to Lewes.

“It’s another challenge and confidence is obviously high,” Ball added.

“I just want more of the same.”