IAN Long was pleased with significant improvement in Tivi’s performance as they claimed another three points against Stocksbridge Park Steels on Saturday at The Beeches.

Leigh Downing bagged a brace for ‘Dale as Long’s men now concentrate on the trip to Derbyshire tomorrow night to face table topping Mickleover Sports.

Long said “I thought it was an extremely good performance. Fair play to the players, they responded to the criticism from myself and the coaching staff in midweek after the Brigg game last weekend.

“It was never going to be an easy game – Stocksbridge are a good side. I’m pleased for Leigh getting the two goals, he’s one our more creative players and we miss him generally when he’s not available for us.

“Credit to Ryan (Winwood), too, he did very well when he came on and played a big part in the winning goal. It’s a tough game tomorrow evening at Mickleover but we’ve done well against the better sides.”