JOEL Byrom was the toast of Northwich on Saturday as his hat-trick led Vics to a superb 4-2 victory over Rushden and Diamonds.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder latched onto two crosses for goals on 13 and 55 minutes before completing a memorable afternoon at the Marston’s Arena with his third, hitting a left-foot shot past Rushden keeper Dale Roberts.
It was Vics first victory in the Blue Square Premier under caretaker boss Andy Preece and assistant Andy Morrison and one the hosts thoroughly deserved.
Luke Joyce made the game safe late on after Rushden had threatened to fight back scoring twice in two minutes through Michael Rankine and Robert Wolleaston.
At 1-0 Rushden’s Michael Corcoran was sent off for a horror tackle on Luke Horrocks.
After the game Morrison paid tribute to the players and also to the supporters who accounted for the majority of the 687 crowd.
He said: “It’s been coming. We have been really pleased and attitude but not the results. It was great to see us score four goals and get the win.”
Morrison paid tribute to the fans after the game describing their support as “incredible”.
“They lift us up when we need them to but who picks them up?” he said. “Hopefully we gave them a bit back on Saturday. They have been incredible given what they have been and are still having to put up with.
“Life is really tough at the moment for the football club but we will be attacking every game looking for more points. Hopefully in the next two games we can pick up a couple of wins. That would be great.
“This win is another step in the right direction for us.”
Vics played host to mid-table Salisbury last night and on Saturday they make the journey to Ebbsfleet United for a real six-pointer (3pm).
The Kent strugglers are in the final relegation spot, just two places and 14 points ahead of Vics.
On Tuesday, Vics complete a vital double-header when they host third-from-bottom Woking (7.45pm).
