ASSISTANT Manager Richard Colwell praised Tividale’s players despite falling to a second consecutive defeat at in form Leek Town on Saturday.

‘Dale found themselves 2-0 down at half-time following goals from Tim Grice and Liam Shotton, the second of which was in stoppage time and Colwell believes that was a massive moment in the game.

He said “The second goal killed us, really.”

“Leek are a very good side and beat Sutton Coldfield with ease in midweek.

“It was always going to be a tough test.”

But Colwell was full of praise for the way Tivi’s players responded in the second period.

“The players showed great character in the second half and had we managed to get a goal back, Leek would have been nervous in the closing stages.”

Ian Long’s side now face Norton United at The Beeches tomorrow night with Colwell confident that the players will be ready for the challenge.

“Tomorrow night is a big game for us and we need to turn our home form around.