DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE manager John Still believes he saw signs of improvement during his side s 1-0 defeat at Northampton Town on Saturday.

by MIKE SIMMONDS

DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE manager John Still believes he saw signs of improvement during his side's 1-0 defeat at Northampton Town on Saturday.

John Johnson's second half strike condemned Daggers to their third successive defeat, but an improved display after the break gave Still cause for optimism.

About

"I felt that in the second half I saw more of what we are about," he said.

"We started to force corners, got amongst them, and had it not been for some excellent saves from their goalkeeper, it might have been different.

"But after not watching my team for a while, I picked up some things I hadn't by looking at the DVDs and I've seen things I can work with."

Still made four changes to his starting line-up, bringing in Wes Thomas, Darren Currie, Jon Nurse and Damien McCrory for Josh Scott, Danny Spiller, Danny Green and Jamie Day, and felt it was right to freshen up the side.

"People have to remember that the likes of Josh Scott and Danny Green have come to us from non-league," he said.

"Danny had started every league game for us this season and I certainly didn't expect him to do that in his first season."

"Danny Spiller was left out because it is all about partnerships," continued the boss.

"I don't necessarily see Peter Gain and Danny Spiller as a partnership as we wouldn't have someone to sit in midfield.

New signing McCrory turned in a man of the match performance in his first appearance for the club since joining from Plymouth Argyle on deadline day.

The youngster is the third left back Still has tried since losing Scott Griffiths to Peterborough and he showed plenty of promising signs.

Liked

"We liked him 18 months ago when I saw him play for Plymouth and also at Port Vale and Grimsby," said the manager

"He was good on Saturday and we have to remember that he is still only a baby.

"We have him, Abu Ogog and Scott Doe, who continues to get better with every game, and there is plenty to work with in defence now.

Striker Phil Walsh also made his debut in the latter stages after impressing his manager in training.

"He has worked hard is very eager and done everything that is asked of him," said Still.

"I don't think we will see the best of him until next year, but he gave us a threat."

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