Ferryhill Athletic manager Mark Fanning could not hide his exuberance after seeing his side chalk up a first win of the season at the weekend.

Until then, they had gained just three draws and lost eight of their 11 fixtures and Fanning is hoping that the victory over Barnard Castle Glaxo will give his young team confidence.

"To say I was over the moon is a gross under-estimation. It has been hard so far but I'm sure that the future is bright for the club. We have got a lot of youngsters in the team some of whom are straight out of junior football and it is a big step up the ladder," claimed Fanning.

"They need experience and the only way they can get it is by playing. Hopefully, they will develop their skills and stick with the club. I am just about happy with the squad but I am still looking to bring in a couple of players to add a bit of experience."

Recently, Fanning was delighted that the former Sunderland and Darlington player Brian Atkinson agreed to turn out against Birtley Town. "His passing and positioning were great to see. Unfortunately, Brian has other commitments but when he is free he has said he would like to play for us which is good news for the club."

This season, Ferryhill are being sponsored by Pulman of Durham and Fanning reckons without their tremendous commitment the club would be struggling.

"They have been absolutely marvellous and have helped us in several directions.

"They have provided two kits and match balls and give assistance with the production of the programme and our web-site. On match days, they also help in other directions and we could not ask for more," enthused Fanning.

Norman Bellwood, who has been a stalwart in recent years, is chairman, Craven Beal is secretary and Peter Denton is assistant manager. Barry Catterall is physio and his son Jason player manager.

"We have a good team behind the scenes and I am sure the side will start to improve on the field. One win might not seem much but when you are at the bottom, it is sometimes just one victory which can instil a bit of confidence and start the ball rolling," claimed Fanning.

Tomorrow's fixtures: Birtley Town v Gateshead Reserves, New Marske v Boldon CA, North Shields v Whitehaven, Windscale v Stokesley SC, Wolviston v Barnard Castle Glaxo.

Durham Challenge Cup: Ferryhill Athletic v Darlington RA, Peterlee Newtown v Jarrow, Cleadon SC v Crook Town, Harton and Westoe v Annfield Plain, Washington Nissan UK v West Auckland.