AFTER winning three of their last four games and conceding just one goal, Wolviston firmly believe that their form has finally turned the corner.

The Teessiders, who finished third behind champions Nissan and runners-up North Shields last year, took just two points from their first seven league games but recently they have chalked up 11 goals and conceded only one in four outings.

"Out of the blue we defeated Whitehaven 3-0 in the league cup, but the following week we went down by the only goal to Ryhope CW in a league fixture.

"That result was disappointing since Ryhope have also struggled, but in the last couple of weeks we have recorded two victories by 4-0 margins," enthused long serving secretary Keith Simpson.

Stanley United were Wolviston's victims a fortnight ago when the sides met in the Monkwearmouth Charity Cup and last Saturday Wolviston won by the same score at Cleadon SC.

"It was our first victory in the league in eight attempts."

Simpson gives goalkeeper Simon Clark some credit for the team's improved defensive performances.

"He was coaching schools and universities in America for three months and there is no doubt we missed him. Since he has taken over again the defence has looked a lot more solid," Simpson said.

Wolviston manager Graham Howard is also pleased with a couple of his recent signings. David Morgan, snapped up from Darlington RA, has settled in well at left back and Terry Lawler has impressed as sweeper.

"In addition, winger Gary Crawford has added a new dimension to the attack. He is fast and tricky and his transfer from the Albany Northern League side Thornaby has been good for us," added Simpson.

Striker Chris Lax is certainly pleased with the service provided by Crawford. A couple of weeks ago he hit a hat-trick at Stanley United and at the weekend scored all four goals on the visit to Cleadon SC.

"Chris has weighed in with seven goals in two matches which is not bad by any standard. It's just as well since we've lost Mattie Pickover, who is playing for his university team and in an ideal world we need another striker to help out," said Simpson.

Peter Hayton, meanwhile, the ex-Darlington player, is to follow in Simon Clark's footsteps and spend four months coaching in America.

"We will miss Peter. He does a good job coaching our reserves, but we wish him well during his short time in the States," added Simpson.