Dorchester Town manager Tom Killick hailed an “exceptional performance” from his side after the Magpies claimed a dramatic 4–3 victory over high-flying Havant & Waterlooville.
The result ended Dorchester’s run of four straight defeats in the Southern League Premier South and came against a Havant side who had won seven of their previous eight league matches under new boss Aaron Martin.
The visitors struck early when Harry Thorpe capitalised on a mistake from goalkeeper Gerard Benfield to open the scoring in the third minute. Dorchester responded well and were rewarded when Jaydn Crosbie flicked home a deserved equaliser.
However, the Magpies suffered a blow just before half-time as Ryan Seager fired Havant back in front, netting his 30th goal of the season.
Killick’s substitutions proved decisive after the break, with Wayne Robinson, Marcus Daws and Luke Roberts helping to turn the contest on its head. Dorchester surged into a 4–2 lead, Corby Moore converting a penalty after Marcel McIntosh was tripped, before headers from Robinson and Harvey Wright sparked wild celebrations at the Avenue.
Havant threatened a late comeback when Ethan Giwa-McNeil thundered home a 25-yard strike, but Dorchester held firm to secure their first league win since December 6.
“It was just an exceptional performance from us,” Killick told BBC Radio Solent. “Conceding that second goal before half-time was a real kick in the guts, but the players were very good mentally and physically after that and we deserved to win the game.
“I know it’s just one game and the league table still doesn’t make good reading, but sometimes when you’ve had so many bad days, when a good one comes along, the players, supporters and everyone connected with the club has to enjoy it.”
Killick made a bold selection call by pairing debutant Jay Williams with Harvey Wright at centre-back, leaving captain Will Spetch out of the starting XI. Wright, in particular, earned glowing praise from the Magpies boss.
“I thought Harvey was outstanding,” Killick said. “Marcel was very good at right-back and Jay slotted in well, but Harvey was an immense presence for us.”
The Dorchester manager also reflected positively on his substitutions, admitting they had been an area for improvement in recent weeks.
“I was pleased with that,” he told the Echo. “Luke, Wayne and Dawsy all came on and made a real impact. When you look at the bench Havant have, it’s important that we feel confident in ours too.”
Crosbie is suspected to have suffered a broken nose during the match but still found the net just two minutes after receiving treatment. New loan signing Jack Topley, who joined from Hull City this week, was held back despite being available.
Killick explained: “We had a strong bench and felt it was the right decision. Hopefully, with Portland coming up on Tuesday, weather permitting, it’ll be a great chance for him to start.”
Dorchester now turn their attention to a crucial home clash against fellow strugglers Hanwell Town on Saturday (3pm), with 21st hosting 17th in what could prove a pivotal fixture in the relegation battle.
