ALAN Dyton hailed Matty Bennett's all-round contribution after the winger helped Shrivenham twice come from behind to salvage a point against Witney United.
Bennett only arrived at the Rec two weeks ago from Wootton Bassett Town, but the midfielder already has three goals to his name, including two on Saturday.
After watching his new playmaker frighten the life out of the Witney full-backs, Dyton predicts Bennett can become one of Shrivenham's most influential players.
"Matty has great ability, he's good with both feet and I think he can be a major asset," said the co-manager.
"We've always been blessed down the left with Michael Silvanus, and now it's like we have two Michael Silvanus's.
"He lost his marker for a couple of goals recently, but we've spoken to him about that and defending as a unit.
"But when we get him into space with the ball at his feet he can cause big problems for the opposition."
Witney bossed the game from the outset and were good value for their lead when Kevin Lewis smashed a long-range effort past Shrivenham goalkeeper James Domm.
But Bennett brought the hosts level after 38 minutes, Tom Feeler with the assist.
Former Supermarine midfielder JP Mills made it 2-1 to Witney with a fierce free-kick that Domm couldn't keep out.
Shrivvy were not finished however, and Bennett ghosted past his marker to fire home a second equaliser with 15 minutes to play.
"We've been finishing games really strongly and in the short time I have been back here there has definitely been an improvement," said Dyton.
"We are trying to get that balance right between defending without panic and not compromising what we are doing going forward."
Fairford Town suffered late penalty heartache as Danny Mason's 88th minute spot-kick gave Ardley United a 1-0 win at Cinder Lane.
Andy Spencer's hand-ball was spotted by the referee and Mason made no mistake from 12 yards to leave John Paget and his players reeling.
Despite the defeat, Paget was full of praise for his side, who were subjected to some extra pre-match training.
"I was not happy with them in the week and so I brought them in early for some practice," said Paget.
"It seemed to work because the back four and the goalkeeper were superb. I really couldn't fault anyone.
"It was so disappointing to lose in the way we did because the ball was going out for a goal-kick.
"But I told the players to keep their heads up because they played a great game."
Highworth Town's inconsistent form continued as they were beaten 3-1 away at Abingdon Town.
Dave Webb's side return to action tomorrow night, when they face a daunting trip to championship-chasing North Leigh.
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