Peaks delighted as Diamonds get back on track

Diamonds went into the clash on the back of three successive defeats in the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Division One South.

But they moved back up to fourth place in the table thanks to Nabil Shariff hat-trick and Jack Bowen’s first goal since returning to the club.

Diamonds could even afford the luxury of Shariff missing a first-half penalty as they jumped back into the play-off places.

It was a good day at the office that left boss Peaks a happy man, although he knows there will be more “ups and downs” to come as Diamonds look to secure an extended season.

“It was good to get back to winning ways,” he said.

“After the three losses we had, it was all about getting the right result and it was great to come back with the three points.

“You can never be sure how the players will react but they went out there and did the job.

“We were 2-0 up and if it had gone to 3-0 with the penalty then it would have been comfortable but once they got back to 2-1 you never really know what could happen.

“Finishing at 4-1 made it look a bit more comfortable than it was but we are happy to be back on track.

“I have said all along that the teams up there have got to play each other and there will be twists and turns.

“It was nice to come in after the win yesterday and see that the other results had gone for us.

“There will be ups and downs between now and the end of the season but we will focus on ourselves.”

Diamonds are back in action on Tuesday night when they entertain Premier Division outfit Buxton in the quarter-finals of the Integro League Cup.