FC CLACTON manager David Coyle admitted being thrilled with the result – but dismayed by his side’s defending – in their crazy goal-fest at Walsham-le-Willows.

The Seasiders boss had stated that the game would have a major bearing on his side’s season, given both teams’ positions.

And he was not to be disappointed – even if it was far from plain sailing in the 6-4 Thurlow Nunn League premier division success at Summer Road.

“It was a crazy game – and I thought it was dreadful,” Coyle told the Gazette.

“I’m sure it was exciting for spectators, because of the goals, but the standard of football was horrible and, for me, hard to watch.

“I don’t remember us putting two passes together and we were all over the place, at times.

“Even by our recent standards, the goals we conceded were hopeless and there could have been more than ten.

“We were just fortunate to have such a threat up front as we relied on Aaron (Condon), Ben (Parkin) and Kevin (Coyle).

“It was definitely a day when the result was the most important thing, though.

“We knew we’d be in a relegation dogfight, if we’d lost.

“And while I always want us to play the best football we can, I know the one thing people enjoy more than anything is winning.

“My job when I came here was to improve the team and take the club to their highest position.

“At the moment, we’re on course to do that and achieve one of our main targets, so there’s lots to be pleased about.”

Skipper and top-scorer Condon netted a hat-trick and he was joined on the scoresheet by Coyle, Parkin and substitute Karl Andrade.

Walsham led twice but it was Clacton in the ascendancy at half-time, winning 3-2.

Condon then rolled home a penalty and although the hosts stayed in contention, Coyle’s side always held the upper hand and moved up to 12th.

The success put clear daylight – ten points – between them and the bottom three.

However, their recent defensive record is a concern.

Clacton have shipped 16 goals in their last five games – and one of those was a clean sheet, in the 3-0 win at Whitton United.

In the other four they have leaked four on each occasion.

“Chris Ribchester (a key man earlier in the season but now limited in terms of availability) makes such a difference and I wouldn’t mind betting we’ve conceded more goals in the last ten games or so, when he’s been missing, as in the rest of the season put together,” said Coyle.

“But it is what it is and we just have to keep working hard with the players at our disposal.”

Coyle admitted making a recent approach for Brantham Athletic’s Jack Sibbons.

However, the defender wants to stay put for now.