DARREN Perrin heaped praise on his Melksham Town players as they rose to the occasion in their top-of-the-table clash with Bristol Manor Farm last night.

In front of a bumper crowd of 364 at the Conigre, the largest in the Toolstation League Premier Division by some distance so far this season, a dynamic Melksham ran out comfortable 3-0 winners to move top of the table.

Striker Dan Kovacs scored twice whilst Ben Thomson was also on the scoresheet on a memorable evening for Perrin’s men.

“It was a game that will live long in the memory. I can’t stress it enough; all credit should go to my players,” said the Melksham manager.

“Bristol Manor Farm are a very good side and we harassed them all across the pitch.

“I think Dan Kovacs will admit that he was under-par at Gillingham (on Saturday), so it was great to see him get two goals. Ben Thomson also showed once again that, on his day, he’s as good as any other wide player in the league.

“We also did it without some of our more well-known players – Mike Perrott, Sean Benison, Dave Thompson and Luke Smith – and the players that have come in have done a great job.”

On Saturday, Ryan Bennett, Leigh Rogers and Thomson were all on target as Melksham won 3-0 at Gillingham Town.

Perrin’s side face another huge clash this weekend when they host Hellenic League Premier Division giants Highmoor Ibis in the first round proper of the FA Vase.

Dan King is cup-tied after already featuring in the competition for Bradford Town whilst defender Steve Casey misses out.

But forward Sean Benison could return to the Melksham squad.

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