Soham Town Rangers jumped out of the Bostik North Division bottom two thanks to a ‘perfect away performance’.

Soham Town Rangers jumped out of the Bostik North Division bottom two thanks to a ‘perfect away performance’.

That’s how player/assistant boss Erkan Okay described the Greens’ fine 1-0 triumph at Canvey Island last Saturday.

Ryan Auger grabbed the only goal with a 20-yard half-volley after 10 minutes before goalkeeper Josh Pope saved a penalty – harshly-awarded for handball against John Kaye - later in the first half.

“We started the game really well and got ourselves ahead,” said Okay.

“We had really good organisation and discipline with the back five defending superbly to get the clean sheet.

“It was a case of justice being done when Josh saved the penalty because it was an incredibly harsh decision.

“Canvey Island are looking to be there challenging for promotion so to come away with three points is brilliant.

“It’s the first time we’ve managed back-to-back wins in the league this season and we’ve now won four of our last five games in all competitions.

“It’s great to be out of the bottom two and we’re making great progress despite asking a lot of such a small squad. The lads are getting their rewards for the way they have stuck together even when results were going against us.

“We’ve always believed in this group of players and we’ve always been adamant we should be much higher up the table.

“We’re still nowhere near being the finished article and we’re certainly not out of trouble by any means.

“But the confidence has come flooding back over the last few weeks and our dressing room is a great place to be.”

Rangers, who are out of the relegation zone on goal difference, will aim to continue their winning run when hosting mid-table side AFC Sudbury at Julius Martin Lane this Saturday, 3pm.

“Sudbury are a footballing side so we know what to expect,” added Okay. “They had a difficult result last weekend so will be looking for a reaction whereas we want to continue building momentum.

“We’ve done well at home lately and the supporters have been different class. I think they appreciate the fact they are seeing a squad that is giving absolutely everything.”

Incredibly Rangers are only six points off the top-half of an ultra-tight table. Their only other pre-Christmas fixture is a December 15 trip to high-flying Bowers & Pitsea.