Magpies rally to record first home win of the season against Dagenham & Redbridge

Maidenhead United came from a goal behind to beat Dagenham & Redbridge 2-1 in their National League clash at York Road on Tuesday night.

Josh Coley (above) produced a man-of-the-performance after the winger scored and made another goal to inspire a first home victory of the season for the Magpies.

The Daggers' sharp start put Devonshire's men on the back foot at the break as Sam Deering volleyed home an opener on the stroke of half-time assisted by Will Wright.

Given the early exchanges, Devonshire's men looked hard-pressed to get something from this tie and perhaps the burden of knowing they have been without a win at York Road since January weighed heavy on their shoulders.

But after an inspired team-talk from the Magpies boss, Nathan Blissett drew the hosts level in the 56th minute when Coley picked out the striker through a sea of red and blue bodies in the Dagenham box.

Coley then turned goal scorer 20 minutes later when a lung-busting run enabled him to outpace the Dagenham defence and curl home an impressive effort after 'keeper Elliott Justham misjudged his clearance.

Dan Sparkes could have assured the Magpies' victory had he found the back of the net with a well-struck free kick on the 80th minute that Justham narrowly got his fingers to. 

But to the relief of Devonshire and his backroom staff, Maidenhead held firm for the remaining ten to pick up maximum points from this encounter and end - if not temporarily - their home form hoodoo.

The victory lifts the Magpies to ninth place in the National League. They host Solihull Moors this Saturday behind closed doors. 3pm kickoff.

What a performance from this man.

We caught up with @_JMColey after tonight’s win. #WeAreMaidenhead #MAIvDAG pic.twitter.com/uFbbP49hNv

— Maidenhead United (@MUFCYorkRoad) October 27, 2020