Away backing is simply fan-tastic

FAN power is driving on Athletic's players in their quest to reach the promotion play-off places.

That is the view of manager Paul Dickov, who was mighty impressed by the travelling army of 400 who made such a noise at Dagenham.

Even the nightmare of negotiating nearby tube station closures didn't dampen the spirits of the Athletic fans situated in the smart Marcus James Stand at a compact Victoria Road ground on Saturday.

Though admitting that everyone connected with the club would like more fans to come through the gates at Boundary Park, Dickov says that the players really respond to the support they see and hear around them.

Dickov said: "The fans have been fantastic in every single game.

"We think the world of them and want to put on performances for them.

"They see a team who will dig in, work hard and put their bodies on the line.

“Our performance at Dagenham was for them.

"No disrespect, but Dagenham is not the nicest place to go to and is hard to get to.

“We were delighted as the backing was great."