DAVID Coyle celebrated his first victory as FC Clacton manager as the Seasiders won 4-1 at Thetford, on Saturday.

It was their first success since beating Brantham Athletic 3-0 on October 28, in Glenn Eldridge’s final game in charge, and only their second in 12 matches.

“It was a great win,” said Coyle.

“It was hard work, having been totally outplayed in the first half.

“I don’t know we came in at half-time in front and could have been three or four behind. That wouldn’t have been unfair.

“We were well short but in the second we were much more in control - more resilient, disciplined and organised and better on the break.”

Lee Peacock fired Clacton in front from close range, after a corner from Kevin Coyle.

Thetford hit the woodwork three times, had an effort cleared off the line and another disallowed as the first half finished 1-0.

Clacton then doubled their lead ten minutes into the second half, when Tom Holdstock converted after Aaron Condon’s initial shot was saved by the Thetford keeper.

The hosts pulled one back soon after, from a tap in, before Adam Daniels restored the two-goal margin with a close-range finish from another Coyle corner.

Clacton’s fourth was the pick of the bunch – a fantastic solo effort from Louie Newland.

The midfielder gained the ball in his own half and accelerated forward, shrugging aside several challenges before finishing coolly.

“It was pleasing to score four goals, having only averaged one all season,” added Coyle.

“We’re also unbeaten in two, after a run of defeats, so there were plenty of positives.”

Meanwhile, Clacton’s second string treated spectators to a goal feast as they beat Hatfield Peverel Reserves 7-1 at the Bowl on Saturday.