Frome Town 3, Dawlish Town 1

ANDY Crabtree revealed the secret to Frome's success on Saturday after the Robins extended their remarkable winning sequence to eight games.

The manager of the month believes team spirit and friendly banter hold the keys to the trophy cabinet this season.

Crabtree has concocted a potent mix of fun and fireworks at Badgers Hill and has watched his players explode into life in the Premier Division.

The 3-1 victory over Dawlish saw Frome play some fluent football and then defend doggedly to protect their lead.

Crabtree said Saturday's game provided a perfect example of the togetherness and camaraderie in the squad.

He said: "It definitely gets you through games when things are tough. We were excellent in the first half against Dawlish, but they put us under a bit of pressure in the second.

"That's when you could see the lads all pulling together and fighting for one another. You can tell they are a tight-knit group."

Crabtree is a firm believer in the work hard, play hard' philosophy and he believes the players should always find time to relax between games.

Last season's dramatic revival in fortunes coincided with a team bonding trip to Center Parcs at Longleat, and Crabtree has not forgotten the effect that day had on his squad.

"The lads had a great time. We went on the rapids, had a few drinks in the bar and played ten-pin bowling.

"That was the start of an excellent run of results in the league and we haven't really looked back since," he said.

It has been a busy few days for Crabtree and his back-room staff with four familiar faces returning to Badgers Hill.

Popular goalkeeper Ray Johnston took the gloves from Dean Evans on Saturday after finalising his move from Southern League outfit Clevedon Town.

Fellow shot stopper Lloyd Chamberlain, joint manager of Frome Town Sports under 18s, also signed as further cover.

Defender Ben Millard and winger Steve Bridges have also returned after spells with Larkhall Athletic and Paulton Rovers.

"I'm delighted with all the signings, it shows we are not looking to stand still," said Crabtree.

"It's easier to get players in when the team is winning but I would not have signed them if I didn't think they could add something to the squad."

Weston-super-Mare target Mark Salter converted Sam Duggan's cross to fire Frome in front against Dawlish.

Joe Gomes doubled the home side's advantage, only for Gary Head to nod the visitors back into contention.

The prolific Salter wrapped up the points with a penalty to take his goal tally for the season to 17.