CHIPPENHAM Town manager Mark Collier felt his side were full value for all three points after the Bluebirds triumphed 2-1 at home to Chelmsford City on Saturday.

Following six games without a win in National League South, captain Curtis McDonald’s late header ensured Chippenham would head into their Boxing Day fixture with local rivals Bath City in good spirits.

The home side started brightly at Hardenhuish Park and went ahead in the 13th minute courtesy of a lovely team move that saw David Pratt apply the finishing touch.

Chippenham were unable to hold on until half-time though as the visitors equalised through Robbie Simpson.

Yet, it mattered not as captain McDonald rose highest 15 minutes from time to snatch all three points for Collier’s men.

“It was a really good home win and we were full value for it as well against one of the most in-form teams in the division,” said Collier.

“We started particularly well and got ourselves in front through a very, very good team goal that was finished off by David Pratt.

“We were a little bit disappointed to give away the equaliser because we felt we should have done better in dealing with it, but we came roaring out of the blocks in the second half and I thought we were quite dominant.

“Will Puddy only had to make a couple of saves, and then Curtis MacDonald has scored a header from a set-piece that we’ve worked on.

“It’s a welcome three points and a well-deserved three points.”

Chippenham had signed promising Cheltenham Town youngster Grant Horton in the week alongside former AFC Bournemouth trainee Ryan Case.

Neither made it on for a full debut in Saturday’s win due to knocks, but Collier said their time will come soon, especially given the hectic Christmas schedule that has already begun.

“Grant was on the bench because he picked up a knock in midweek against Arsenal in the FA Youth Cup,” said Collier.

“We were mindful of that and we spoke to Cheltenham about it, so we decided not to risk him.

“Both Grant and Ryan were both on the bench, but we’re going to need everybody in the next few weeks because the simple fact is we have so many games in such a short period of time.

“But Grant has come in to have a little look, pick up some game time and I’m sure he’ll do well for us.”