ROB Small hailed an unlikely central defensive duo as Bowers & Pitsea claimed three valuable points thanks to a 2-0 Isthmian Premier League victory over Potters Bar Town.

Small’s side made the trip looking to end a run of three consecutive defeats in all competitions.

Brad Warner grabbed both of the goals in the triumph but Small was keen to praise Tom Hine and Lewis Manor, who were stationed at the heart of the Bowers defence.

“Tom and Lewis went in at centre-half and that was fantastic because they are not used to playing in that position,” said Small.

“With Callum Leahy suspended and Kenzer Lee having to go off injured, Tom and Lewis had to fill in.

“Walking away with a clean sheet having had that central defensive pairing tells you a lot about how we played.

“We defended brilliantly and Tom and Lewis deserve a lot of credit.”

Warner put Bowers ahead inside 20 minutes as he reacted quickly to Potters Bar goalkeeper Arthur Janata spilling a Max Cornhill effort.

And, nine minutes after the break, Warner put daylight between the two sides.

Warner pounced on a defensive error and tapped home from close range to complete his brace and the scoring.

As a result, Bowers became just the third outfit to overcome Potters Bar at the Pakex Stadium this season.

And Small felt his newly-promoted side were fully deserving of bagging all three points.

“I was really pleased with the win,” added Small.

“It was a thoroughly professional performance from start to finish.

“I was delighted with the application of the players after going away from home to a difficult place.

“Only two teams had won there since the start of the season, so it was a great result.

“That was our first win on a Saturday since September 21 and the first Isthmian Premier League win on a Saturday since August 17, so it was a long time coming.

“It made a nice change bagging three points on a weekend.”

However, Bowers did suffer a blow as Lee was forced off with a knee injury.

And Small fears the defender could face a spell on the sidelines.

“Kenzer suffered a nasty-looking knee injury,” admitted Small.

“He was in a lot of pain and there was a lot of swelling.

“We have to wait for that to go down before determining how long he will be out for.”