Ashford United manager Tommy Warrilow heaps praise on high-flying Nuts & Bolts

Manager Tommy Warrilow says it’s time his Ashford players got a massive pat on the back.

The Nuts & Bolts regained second place in Isthmian South East with Tuesday night’s 2-1 victory over Three Bridges.

Gary Lockyer scored both goals - including an 85th-minute winner - to follow his effort in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Hythe.

Ashford’s form this season has been achieved against a well-documented background of big changes to the squad and a catalogue of injuries.

They’re building as they go and it’s testament to the players that the Nuts & Bolts sit second, three points behind leaders Ramsgate with a game in hand.

“I’ve got to give the lads full credit for what they’re doing,” said boss Warrilow.

“We all know the situation we’re in this season but to be second in the league, with a game in hand, they deserve a massive pat on the back.

“We know we’ve been in and out of games, and we know there’s loads more to come, but big kudos to them.

“It’s a fantastic achievement to be where we are in the circumstances, and with all the players we’ve got out.”

Ashford were forced into another new signing before the Three Bridges game after losing goalkeeper Jacob Russell.

He’s had a scan on a shoulder injury sustained during his player-of-the-match display at Hythe.

Former Margate goalkeeper Pat Ohman joined on dual-registration from Concord, and enjoyed a solid debut in Ashford’s midweek victory.

“Pat slotted straight in,” said Warrilow. “Jacob was in a lot of pain on Saturday night.

“He had the scan on Monday and we’re waiting on the results.

“We don’t know the extent of the injury, so it’s good we’ve got Pat in. I thought he had a fantastic debut.

“It’s a really good win. To be honest, we should have been out of sight at half-time. If