Stunning opening half an hour, on Old Spotted Dog clubs 138th birthday, inspired a comprehensive success at the weekend

Clapton’s interim manager Andre Thomas was delighted to see his players enjoy themselves on Saturday.

Eton Manor made the trip to Old Spotted Dog, but endured a horrific opening half an hour.

Allicion Blake grabbed a brace for the Tons while Nathan Cook got on the scoresheet to put them three up.

The visitors pulled one back before Will Mowbray and Fahad Nyanja netted and Manor added another consolation, but Clapton’s current boss was thrilled with the result.

“Saturday was a good performance from the boys, they seemed to enjoy themselves which is a massive bonus for me,” said Thomas.

“I was proud to be part of the club on its 138th birthday and especially proud to have seen the boys put on the display and proud that the fans enjoyed it.”

Clapton’s victory moves them up to fifth in the standings and was their third of the campaign.

It was also Thomas’ first since taking charge, after Michael Walther’s departure, having guided Tons to a draw versus Wadham Lodge last Tuesday.

But the current ProPower Dragons under-15s assistant manager was happy to concentrate on the bigger picture.

Thomas added: “It is always nice to get my first win in charge, but I’d rather look at it as the team getting their third victory in the league and fourth in all competitions.

“I prefer to see it that way so they’re used to feeling the jubilation of wins after hard work and create good habits.”

Clapton had a birthday cake at the Old Spotted Dog on Saturday to celebrate their 138th birthday and also provided a young man with a football scholarship award of two lots of football kits, tracksuits, boots and football.

Tons players, supporters and the club’s chief executive were present to offer support to the young person.