GRAHAM Kemp praised Christchurch's best performance in terms of "team ethic" as they beat Hayling United 2-1.

It wasn't vintage football from Kemp's side but they battled well to earn the points.

"We stuck together, hung in there and came out with credit," said Kemp.

It was the perfect response from Priory after Tuesday's home defeat at the hands of Alton Town.

"Our passing wasn't the best and we didn't create a lot of chances.

"But we hung in there when things weren't going right and made it hard for them," explained Kemp.

The Priory boss is hoping his side can make games in hand count and push on.

He said: "I'd like to finish in the top 10. It's always tough for a club with no budget at all to break into the top 10 but that's my aim, as well as a couple of good cup runs."

Kemp was also quick to praise his front two - Marc Burrows and Robbie Woolner - who have been in fine form, with Woolner getting on the scoresheet on Saturday.

"The two strikers are really on fire," said Kemp.

"Robbie Woolner bided his time and was on the bench but he worked hard in training and he's got six or seven in the last few games so he's doing well."

Things have also improved at the other end. Kemp puts this down partly to new recruit Dan Loader, who has taken over in goal from Alan Walker-Harris.

He said: "Dan is a good lad. I was fortunate enough to have him at Brockenhurst last year in the reserves and the reports on him were good.

"Alan Walker-Harris left and I had no hesitation to put Dan in and he's a good young lad.

"We like to bring through and look to give youngsters a chance. The average age is probably 23 or 24 so that bodes well for the future."

Christchurch: Loader, Dand, Costello, Hughes, Crutchley, Jenvey, Drew (Lawrence 70), Manning (Midgley 25), Rideout, Woolner, Burrows (Collins 70).