Stuart Cattell praised Wantage Town’s battling qualities as they ended a long losing run with a 1-0 win at home to Marlow on Saturday.

Interim player-manager Cattell, who was forced to watch from the sidelines due to suspension, saw his side move out of the relegation zone in Evo-Stik Southern League Division 1 South & West with a gutsy display.

“The victory was down to hard work and determination and we thoroughly deserved it,” said Cattell.

“I’ve had a word with the chairman Tony Woodard and he wants me and my assistant Sam Collier to carry on looking after the team, although he is trying to secure some additional support.”

The only goal of the game came from Aaron Ferris in the 59th minute.

Ben Whitehead went close to a second, while James Glover tested Marlow keeper Simon Grant.

Marlow pushed for an equaliser, but Wantage held out.

Their next league game is away to Slimbridge on Saturday.

Wantage Tn: Cavanagh, Elliott, McGlyn (Hulbert-Thomas 34), Glover, Carbon, Collier, Clark, Johns, Thorne, Whitehead, Ferris. Subs not used: R Cattell, Smith, Roberts, Jones.

Attendance: 72.

Didcot Town cruised to a 3-1 victory at Shortwood United on Saturday.

The Railwaymen took the lead after seven minutes when Adam Learoyd scored from close range.

Kieran Collins and Mark Janes then went close as Didcot ended the half on top.

With 20 minutes to go, Mark Francis made it 2-0, before Shortwood replied through Joe White.

But Graham Edney fired home Didcot’s third on 89 minutes.

Didcot Tn: Bedwell, Collins, Organ, Ballard, Carnell, Learoyd, Martin (Powell 83), Self, Janes (Edney 66), Francis, Williams (Woodley 79). Sub not used: Deabill. Attendance: 81.

Didcot returned to winning ways the previous Tuesday with a hard-earned 1-0 victory against Mangotsfield.

Josh Dutton-Black scored the only goal of the game in the 61st minute.