BOSS Tom Killick labelled Dolphins’ two wins from their festive derbies as ‘a great haul of points’ that can serve as a platform for Poole to regain a playoff spot.

A late flurry of goals at Dorchester on December 27 sealed a 4-1 win, before a Will Spetch hat-trick decided the Cross-Stour derby five days later.

Two victories for Poole lifts them up to seventh – just one point behind Gosport in the final playoff spot.

Speaking after the game, Killick told the Daily Echo: “It’s six great points for us.

“Dorchester, I feel are an improving side. They’ve had a bit of momentum in terms of their home form. To go there, and win convincingly in the way we did was very, very good.

“Then, I did feel we were a little bit leggy against Wimborne, we weren’t at our best. But, we’ve won very convincingly and that’s all I can ask for.

“I feel the players, rightly, have had a bit of criticism from me, externally from the club, and I think they have to be big enough to take that – as I do, in terms of personal criticism.

“I felt against Wimborne, and against Dorchester, they really responded well and it’s two really good performances and a great haul of points, that starts us looking in the right direction in terms of the league table.”

A grey cloud hung over the match with Wimborne, after defender Dan Strugnell suffered a horrific injury in a freak accident, with the full-back left stranded on the pitch as he awaited an ambulance.

Play was suspended for over 40 minutes, with Poole quickly taking the lead after the game restarted.

Killick was quick to express sympathy for both Strugnell and Wimborne, stating: “Obviously everyone’s thoughts are with the stricken player, Dan Strugnell.

“He’s been a great non-league player in the local area over the years, and we hope that he has a speedy recovery.

“Being in that state for so long, it’s very, very difficult, and difficult for the other players to deal with, particularly on Wimborne’s side.

“It was a difficult start for everyone. But, I was pleased with how we responded after the game started.”