THE sending off of Al McPhie didn’t stop Amesbury Town from marching to their fourth league win on the spin against previous leaders Fleet Spurs.

Going behind to Sam Knowles’ goal had no bearing on the Blues as they made a perfect response through goal machine Eddie Perrett, who got the hosts back on track four minutes before the interval.

At one apiece, the game could have slipped away from Town’s grasp when McPhie picked up an unlawful second yellow card on the 66th minute for allegedly impeding a Fleet Spurs player.

But Town’s confidence prevailed and five minutes later after being reduced to ten men, Nic Turpin who, in his previous spell at Amesbury scored 97 goals in 92 appearances, put them ahead for the first time with an easy tap-in.

That goal was one of three to arrive in the space of eight minutes. The goal flurry continued as Danny Finnigan fired home Amesbury’s third before setting free for a fourth.

The 4-1 victory puts Amesbury into second spot in Wessex Division One, within a point of new leaders Tadley Calleva.

Head coach Gareth Horner said: “The squad collectively on Saturday were superb. We knew that the only outcome that we would have been satisfied with was three points and that's what we got.

“To be fair, we were dominant throughout and were unfortunate to go behind from a set piece. Fleet caused us little problems. That said, after the sending-off just after the hour it could have been a different story. The lads dug deep and found an extra gear and put Fleet to the sword.

“We had more chances than the score line reflects but the three points were key.”

“It was great to have Nic back with us and he had an immediate impact almost scoring an unbelievable goal with his first touch.

“The squad is the best it has been and credit to the lads who have not been involved week in, week out as they still come and train and make themselves available.”

It’s derby day at Bonnymead Park on Saturday when Shrewton visit in the Wiltshire Senior Cup (3pm).

Horner added: “Saturday is obviously a huge derby in a very prestigious competition but it may give me the opportunity to get some more minutes into some of the players and the same can be said for the Hospital Cup tie on Wednesday against Downton.

“We already have one eye on our fixture a week Saturday against tabletoppers Tadley who, I believe, will be very difficult to shift from top spot this year.”