Halstead Town manager Mark Benterman has been impressed with how his players have bounced back from a disappointing performance this week and feels they can now place themselves back in the Thurlow Nunn League division one promotion mix.

A 4-1 defeat by Haverhill Borough left Benterman demanding more from his team, so he has been delighted with the way they have delivered two excellent cup results as a response.

A 4-0 win against Downham Town in the Thurlow Nuun League Division One Knockout Cup last weekend was followed on Tuesday by a 4-1 Thurlow Nunn League Cup success against a Wivenhoe Town side who play in the division above the Humbugs.

And Benterman wants his team to push on from these displays, starting with a division one game against Dereham Town at Rosemary Lane today (kick-off 3pm).

The Humbugs boss said: “I think this season has been the most difficult as a manager with the injuries we’ve had.

“Some players have stepped up and some haven’t, but overall the mental strength of these boys has been excellent.

“They don’t let poor results affect them and I’ve been very pleased with how we’ve bounced back."

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