Evans a 'special player'

Hungerford Town boss Danny Robinson described Jake Evans as a "special player" after the attacking midfielder's second half thunderbolt proved the difference in Saturday's 1-0 win over Dover Athletic.

Evans, who was crowned December's player of the month, has endured a somewhat hit and miss season so far but demonstrated his worth and then some when he scored from 30 yards at the weekend.

"He's a special player and one of the nicest people I've ever worked with," Robinson said.

"His attitude on the pitch, in the changing rooms and in training is second to none.

"Every footballer goes up and down and Jake's no exception, but over the last month Jake's hit his top level."

Robinson described the Dover clash as a "must win" in the week and was delighted with how his side performed in difficult conditions.

He said: "It's three huge points, if we're going to survive we've got to pick up points at home.

"To a man I thought we deserved it today, we were excellent."

As for a potential great escape, Robinson remains realistic but believes Saturday's win could be the catalyst the Crusaders need to propel themselves up the table and towards safety.

"It's one win, so we can't get carried away, but we've got 20-odd games still to play and we very much believe we can do it, I wouldn't be here otherwise," he said.

Off the pitch, it was a difficult week for Robinson following the news that chairman Patrick Chambers and his wife and commercial manager Nicky were to step down at the end of the season.

"Patrick and Nicky have been phenomenal for this club, I'm forever grateful to them for giving me the opportunity here," Robinson said.

"Hopefully we can get out of this position we're in and end on a real high."

The Crusaders welcome Southern League side Tamworth to Bulpit Lane this weekend for an FA Trophy fourth round clash before another home league game against St Albans on Tuesday night.