BOSS Mark Phillips has praised his Stourport defence after they shored things up at the back to bag a vital victory over Brocton.

Swifts kept their first clean sheet in nine games to win 2-0 at home on Tuesday night. Goals from Alex Perry and Matt Fulloway ensured they took the points.

The win also saw them bounce back from a poor defensive display during last Saturday's 4-3 loss at Quorn.

Phillips said: "We deserved the win but did have to do some defending after we'd gone in front. But we defended well, which was pleasing after what had happened at Quorn.

"We are playing well at the moment but we defended badly and let the points slip away on Saturday.

"I don't like doing it but I had a go at the players afterwards and told them we needed to be better at the back. The reaction was pleasing and the clean sheet against Brocton will be a big boost to our confidence.

"The relegation battle will go down to the wire but we are looking forwards now."

Swifts will go to Boldmere St Michaels this Saturday.