AS a one off game I can't think of many more pleasurable wins than Saturday's at Tamworth.

Undoubtedly it was one of the best victories I've had in my time at Worcester but at the end of it all we still only got three points so we need to toughen up in some of our other matches to ensure they are not wasted.

Tamworth are a very good side and are the best team we have played this season.

After the first half performance we could have been playing the second half just trying to get some kind of respectability let alone get three points out of the game.

While it is pleasing to keep the title race alive I

would still rather be in Tamworth's position than ours.

They've got the memory of last year's disappointment as a timely reminder of what can happen in a championship race while it is very much first time for us and we are learning as we go along.

The one downside from the weekend's events was the tragic loss of John Snape. We always seem to lose a valuable player when we play Tamworth - Andy Ellis, Danny McDonnell and David Foy.

It's disappointing to lose players but to be without John who has been so influential is a savage blow.

There was an intimidating atmosphere at the Lamb Ground and in a few cases supporters have to be accountable for their behaviour, as players are on the pitch, but that aside the crowd made the occasion.

I was pleased for Adam Webster that he got the winner because it had been a hard decision to leave him on the bench but it was done for tactical reasons.

Sometimes during your career you don't worry about dropping a player but when it is people like Adam you feel for them a bit. His character gives him the best chance of doing well and I don't think I've come across as honest a player in non league football.

He's still young, not a seasoned player at this level, and when we signed him to some degree we bought potential and he is still finding his feet.

But he's got a good touch and awareness, which was what brought him to our attention, and I wouldn't swap him.

Another who I wouldn't swap is Danny McDonnell. Tamworth must be sick of the sight of him. He broke their hearts at St George's Lane and was brilliant again at the Lamb Ground.

We had tremendous support at Tamworth which doesn't surprise me because on my return to the club I'd seen what they are capable of when I saw the turn out for the FA Trophy match with Telford United.

Big games attract the more casual supporter and we could do with keeping them but every time we get a big gate such as in the Centenary game with Stafford we seem to shoot ourselves in the foot by turning in a below par performance.

Saturday brings Newport County in the FA Trophy and we owe them one after our Boxing Day defeat. We haven't had to endure many losses this season but we didn't enjoy that one.

The FA Trophy gives us a respite from the league and though I'm only looking ahead to this next match it would be great to have a cup run if it pans out that way.

I don't see it harming our league form because by winning games it puts you in the right frame of mind - though of course there is the extra worry about picking up injuries and suspensions.

JOHN BARTON was talking to reporter NAT SYLVESTER.