Class of 2011-12 ‘excite’ Dickov

PAUL Dickov believes Athletic have the right team spirit to help propel the team forward.

The manager, on a high following a second away win in five days at Leyton Orient, says even the players not on the pitch are backing their team-mates to succeed.

“It is early doors and I don’t want to go overboard," Dickov said.

“But I am excited about the group of players we have got this year.

“I believe as well as our quality, I can’t explain how good the togetherness of our group is.

“Reuben Reid came off but when Matt Smith scored, he was nearly back on the pitch celebrating with him.

“Whenever we score, the subs are up. And those that aren’t here and involved, we get text messages from wishing us all the best.

“I just feel there is something really good.

“We are only going to get better. But we have to reproduce these performances, with and without the ball, every week.”

The apparent comfort in the 3-1 scoreline at Brisbane Road, though, belies a game in which Athletic were forced into some strong defending of their own.

“At any point in any match you will come under pressure and it is about how you handle it,” added the Athletic manager.

“They are a good team and to score three times away from home, with all three strikers scoring as well, was fantastic.

“This was a tough game for us. I wouldn’t say I was worried before the match, but while everyone was saying Leyton Orient hadn’t won I knew they are a good side.

“I don’t want anyone to underestimate what we have come here and done.”