Matchwinner Luca Cocoracchio praised by Dover Athletic manager Jake Leberl as utility man gets late winner in 2-1 victory at high-flying Weston-super-Mare

Matchwinner Luca Cocoracchio has been praised by Dover manager Jake Leberl after his late goal in an impressive away victory.

Cocoracchio, who has moved into a midfield role from defence under Leberl, came up with the goods in the 92nd minute as Whites inched to a 2-1 win at title-chasing National League South side Weston-super-Mare last weekend.

The 23-year-old former Brighton & Hove Albion Academy prospect joined Dover alongside No.1 Mitch Walker and defender Joe Tennent - who has since left for Dartford - and played a key role in last term’s Isthmian Premier promotion-winning campaign.

“It’s that position on the pitch that goes unnoticed,” said Leberl, who himself featured in a similar role during his playing days.

“He’s a guy who you can always rely on. He’s a top lad.

“Luca works full-time and is one of those that travels the furthest. He has done brilliantly for us.

“He has got that pedigree. He’s very level-headed and doesn’t get too emotional.

“He has got a good family behind him, which is always important, and we love having him here.

“I’m pleased his goal was the winner.”

Mid-table Dover enjoyed an overnight stay ahead of the match in Somerset - a decision which reaped rewards.

The visitors went ahead as a home player diverted midfielder Alfie Matthews’ free-kick into their own net after some top first-half saves from Walker and, although Weston equalised, Cocoracchio and Dover had the last laugh.

Leberl reflected: “I had a good feeling, going into it. We’re in a good place.

“I think they had been a little bit fortunate against Ebbsfleet (in a 1-0 triumph) and their manager, Scott Rogers, had half-admitted that. I almost thought they were due a loss.

“I was really disappointed in the first half where we never