Stanley United manager Vince Kirkup reckons that better times are on the horizion after last week's first win of the season.

The Hill Top outfit had gone 15 games without tasting success but Kirkup never lost confidence that the tide would turn. And he was encouraged by the comments of opposing managers, and particularly Darlington RA boss David Woodcock.

"I felt we were improving and unlucky not to win one or two matches. We recently played RA and lost just 2-1 to the top-of-the-table side and afterwards David Woodcock said he could not believe we hadn't taken something out of the game," said Kirkup who is now in his 25th season as manager.

In their first 15 matches of the campaign, Stanley drew three times and lost on 12 occasions but Kirkup was quick to point out that six defeats were by a single goal. "We only went down on two occasions by more than a couple of goals and some of the better sides cannot say that. Our record proves we have not been turned over in any match and perhaps last week's 3-0 victory at Harton and Westoe in the League Cup will be just the impetus we need," enthused Kirkup.

Stanley are pleased that Neil Madge has become Kirkup's assistant as player/coach. He previously played for the club 10 years ago and since then has had considerable experience in the Albany Northern League.

"Neil is not only playing well but gives a presence in the dressing room and on the field. He is bringing the best out of the lads and he and I are very happy

with the form of three recent signings from the Bishop Auckland area.

"Defenders Darren Lamb and Ian Lowe together with midfielder Stephen Moore are showing up well as are Alan Lamb since he returned to the side following a long injury lay-off. Richard Johnson has moved from midfield to centre forward in his stride and Micky Sander, who recently rejoined the club from Crook Town, is also in top form.

"I know one win doesn't prove anything but I have thought for several weeks that we are on the road to better times and hopefully we have now turned the corner," added Kirkup. The boss also paid tribute to groundsman Graeme Puckering and helper Barry Johnson. "Graeme and Barry are doing a fantastic job and in 28 years as a player and manager I cannot remember it looking better," Kirkup said