EXPERIENCE was the difference according to Worcester City manager Chris Cornes, who was full of praise for his side after the 1-0 Worcester Derby win over Raiders at Sixways on Wednesday.

It was far from a usual league game for both sides, as a record-breaking crowd for a Hellenic League fixture of 2475 watched on from the stands.

The winning team was always going to be the one that handled the occasion better, and it was City who did so, something that pleased Cornes no end.

Worcester News: Worcester City players congratulate each other at full-timeWorcester City players congratulate each other at full-time (Image: Through The Lens)

"We worked so hard over the summer to bring in the right blend of players on and off the pitch, because it has to be right in both aspects.

"The togetherness in the dressing room is brilliant and you can't knock them. They came in at halftime and they just said, let's keep doing what we are doing, let's keep the ball, and we will win the game.

"We talked about playing the game and not the occasion, using our heads and not getting caught up in it, and I think we did just that.

REACTION: Raiders' boss Gormley left 'gutted' after derby defeat to City

"Isaac (Cooper) going through at the end for Raiders was a big moment, but Haydn (Whitcombe, City keeper) comes up big to make the save. He didn’t have a lot to do but when called into action he did the job, and that's what these experienced players are paid to do.

"Conor Gater and Calvin Dinsley controlled the game in the middle, our back four did very well under a lot of pressure with long balls and flick-ons and they were very good in possession.

"They moved the ball well and we controlled it, that’s what got us the points."

REPORT | City win the first-ever competitive Worcester Derby thanks to Lockett stunner

But it felt like a bit more than just three points in a league game, it was a moment to savour for the travelling support.

Around 1200 City fans packed out the East Stand at Sixways and made brilliant noise throughout, and rightfully celebrated at full-time with the players over on the far side.

Worcester News: Worcester City players and supporters celebrate at full-timeWorcester City players and supporters celebrate at full-time (Image: Through The Lens)

"The crowd was amazing and we did milk it a bit at the end, but that is what football is about," he added.

"It gives it back to the fans. They have paid their money and turned out to support us so it’s about us being able to repay them for that.

"Last season it wasn’t good enough at times and it wasn’t brilliant. There were times last year when we still had 5/600 fans getting behind the team.

"That crowd was massive (on Wednesday). Considering how big that stand is, they really filled it out and they were brilliant and I am glad we could get the job done and were able to give something back to them."