CARETAKER manager Lee Connor heaped praise on his Basildon United side after recording a 1-0 victory over Tilbury.

Ernest Okoh grabbed what proved to be the only goal of the Isthmian North contest.

Despite Kris Newby’s dismissal resulting in the Bees being reduced to 10 men for more than half an hour, Tilbury could not mount a fightback and Connor hopes the triumph at Chadfields will prove to be a turning point in Basildon's season.

“I am ecstatic and the boys put in an absolutely fantastic performance,” said Connor.

“We wanted it more than Tilbury and we were the better side on the day.

“The boys defended excellently and we deserved the three points.

“I think we have been unlucky in the league since the season started.

“We have played so many matches where we have been reduced to 10 men early on and we have not had the rub of the green.

“Some refereeing decisions have not gone our way and a win like that is what we needed.

“I’m hoping it will kickstart our season.”

Having passed up a presentable opportunity moments earlier, Okoh broke the deadlock five minutes before the interval after being found by Danny Norton.

But Newby was shown two yellow cards in quick succession early in the second half, resulting in the Bees being reduced to 10 men.

However, Basildon defended impressively and picked up a second Isthmian North win of the campaign.

“We knew it was going to be an onslaught after Kris’ second yellow card,” added Connor.

“Because of that, we quickly shuffled the formation and brought Nathan Okoye on to play in front of the back four and shore us up a bit.

“After the red card, I thought ‘here we go again’.

“The second yellow card was a little bit harsh but it was a challenge he had to make.

“We defended very well after that and it was a fantastic win for us.”

The victory rounded off a turbulent week for Basildon, who had vice-chairman Connor in the dugout after head coach Glen Kendall was relieved of his duties last weekend.

And Connor was keen to thank those who have supported him in his new role.

“So many people have provided me with excellent support,” admitted Connor.

“Kris Newby, scout Martin Chilver and Mark Edwards, the goalkeeping coach, have been excellent. It’s been a team effort.”