ROB Small has hailed Callum Chafer after the summer signing’s penalty save proved crucial in Bowers & Pitsea registering their first ever Isthmian Premier League win.

Bowers recorded a 4-2 victory over Brightlingsea Regent, but the scores were level when Chafer kept out Billy Hunt’s second half spot-kick.

And Small, whose side romped home to the Isthmian North title last term, was full of praise for his goalkeeper.

“Callum’s all-round performance was phenomenal,” said the Bowers boss.

“He was the clear man of the match for us and made a string of fine saves.

“Callum dominated his box and, at 1-1, Brightlingsea were awarded a penalty.

“With someone of Billy Hunt’s experience, you’re already planning in your head for being 2-1 down and thinking about how you can change the game.

“But Callum then saved the penalty and that was the difference between winning and losing.”

While David Knight gave Bowers a 25th minute lead from the penalty spot, Brightlingsea levelled matters on the stroke of half-time thanks to Jordan Barnett getting his name on the scoresheet.

Just moments after Chafer’s game-changing penalty save, Bowers restored their advantage with a fine Ben Sartain strike.

Lewis Manor, who has been with Bowers since the club’s days in the Essex Senior League, added his name to the scoresheet before Brad Warner put further daylight between the two teams from the penalty spot.

Although Romario Dunne pulled a goal back for the hosts, Bowers had done enough to triumph.

And Small believes the three points will relieve some pressure.

“There was a sense of pride mixed with relief to have got off the mark,” added Small.

“It was a rollercoaster game and Callum making a penalty save was the turning point.

“Callum kept out the penalty and, within a minute, Ben Sartain scored a terrific goal from 20 yards out.

“It was such a historic night, with it being our first ever Isthmian Premier League win, and I felt so drained at the final whistle.

“We were relieved to get a result because that gets the monkey off the back and we don’t have to worry about where the first win is going to come from anymore.”

Meanwhile, Marlon Agyakwa has left Bowers having not made an appearance since his summer move from Canvey Island.

Small confirmed: “Marlon has left in order to pursue an opportunity that we helped to engineer.

“We had an honest conversation with Marlon where told him that the goalposts had moved since when he originally joined us and that it might limit his chances of playing games.

“He is a really good lad and I felt it was important to be honest with him. Marlon decided to explore other opportunities and I wish him all the best.”