BOSS Martin Patterson insisted Corfe Castle’s first win in the Dorset Premier League showed they could compete at that level.

Off the back of three straight promotions, Corfe finally secured victory in their 12th league game of the season thanks to a 4-3 success against visitors Shaftesbury Town reserves.

A brace from substitute Courtney Johnstone and efforts from Brendon Flockton and Ryan Cattano helped Patterson’s side climb above Wareham Rangers.

“It had been a long time coming. We have been in games but not getting results,” said the manager.

“The first half was pretty even but we controlled and managed the second half well, particularly with the conditions.

“In the past three seasons, we have pretty much won every week and you could make mistakes which went unpunished. But every mistake at this level seems to be punished.

“On Saturday, we were excellent. This will be a massive confidence boost for everyone and it is time to kick on now.

“We knew we could compete at this level and getting the win proves that.”

Swanage Town & Herston’s trip to Sherborne Town reserves was postponed. Tim Brown’s side will be hoping to secure local bragging rights when they travel to Wareham Rangers on Saturday.

Wareham are on a run of 12 consecutive defeats in all competitions.