Joint-boss Bridgwater relieved as off-colour Kettering Town bag maximum points
Joint boss David Bridgwater admitted Kettering Town weren't at their best during Saturday's Latimer Park date with struggling Stratford Town, but was happy to see his side grab another three points.
The Poppies remain unbeaten and sit fifth in the Pitching-In Southern League Premier Central, with Michael Gyasi's 20th-minute penalty proving the difference against a stubborn Bards side.
Again, it was a far from convincing performance from Kettering, but they got the job done to stay six points adrift of leaders and 100 per centers Real Bedford, and just three behind second-placed Alvechurch.
"The win is what we wanted," said Bridgwater.
"We needed a better first-half performance after the two we had in the FA Cup against Wellingborough, although I do think that was down to Wellingborough and the way they pressed us.
"We knew Saturday was going to be a different type of game, but we stressed to the lads we needed a good first half, because that sets us up.
"I thought we did do well in the first half, and I thought we controlled the game.
"Did we play well? Yes, we did in parts. Can we play better? Yes, but the main thing is we got the three points and another clean sheet, so I am pleased."
The closing stages were again nervy for the home supporters in the 850-strong crowd, with Kettering opting to hold on to what they had.
Bridgwater felt the Poppies could and should have got more goals, and also felt the midweek Cup replay exertions against the Doughboys played a part.
"You do want to get the second goal to alleviate the pressure, and we should have got the second goal," said the joint boss.
"But sometimes when you are winning 1-0 you want to make sure you don't concede and you do maybe sit a bit deeper.
"I thought the lads tired a little, and Stratford didn't play on Tuesday whereas we did, and they were two tough games against Wellingborough.
"So some of the boys were nursing niggles here and there and you could see they were getting tired towards the end, which is why we made changes.
"But we got through it, and I am happy with the win."
The Poppies are back in action on Tuesday night when a much-changed side will travel to Peterborough Sports in the NFA Hillier Senior Cup (ko 7.45pm).
They then host fellow Step 3 side Quorn in the FA Cup second qualifying round on Saturday (ko 3pm).