Many Adders fans made the short trip to Heather St John on Tuesday night, eager for a chance to see how the side looked under the management of Jimmy Gray. Recent form has led to optimism, especially after an impressive win against Shifnal Town last time out.

Atherstone would have to be on it against Heather, who could be dangerous despite being a league lower. The players rose to the occasion, turning in a controlled performance throughout the majority of the game.

The first half saw few clear cut chances, although it was Atherstone who saw more of the ball in attacking areas. Much of the attacking play came from the Adders right hand side, where Tom Smith and Lewis Noon posed plenty of questions.

The hosts were a threat on the counter attack, but did little to threaten the Atherstone back line. The Adders were given a chance to take the lead just before half time, when Smith was taken down in the box after the ball was won back high up the pitch.

Noon stepped up and calmly slotted home the penalty to give Atherstone a deserved lead. Going into the break, the Adders had some control of the game, but a late sin bin for Smith gave some hope to Heather.

They were able to make the man advantage count early in the second half, striking a lightning counter attack and finding an equaliser just as Smith re-entered the field. The Adders responded well to the set back, and retook control of the match with a full complement of players.

Atherstone took the lead again after a long spell of possession saw the ball worked over to Smith, whose cross to the back post was turned home by Jake Thornton. The youngsters first goal for the club was well deserved after a string of good performances.

The Adders kept on the front foot after the goal, and soon gave themselves a two goal buffer. An excellent move saw the ball worked from one side of the box to the other, with all forwards getting a touch along the way. The move was finished off when Smith laid off for Corey Alcock who hammered home across the goalkeeper.

The rest of the game was seen out with a minimum of fuss, and the final whistle saw the players greeted with appreciation from the travelling fans. The win was the Adders fourth in a row in all competitions, and the second under the new management.

Next up for Atherstone is a trip to the early season league leaders Congleton Town. The Adders will be looking to avenge the narrow home defeat suffered earlier in the campaign.

After a slow start the season is starting to pick up momentum now, with plenty still to play for and big games on the horizon. Be sure to stay behind your Atherstone Town.