Hampton & Richmond Borough Chairman Steve McPherson reckons the Beavers would be thinking of the play-offs had it not been for a succession of injuries and suspensions at the start of the season.

Goals from in-form Dave Tarpey and Barrie Matthews secured a stunning 2-1 triumph over high-flying Chelmsford City on Tuesday to make it three wins in a row for boss Alan Devonshire’s men.

Hampton, who have reached the Blue Square South play-off finals in each of the last two seasons, have flirted with relegation this term after being forced to re-assess their playing budget following a sluggish start to the campaign.

It has seen Devonshire blood a host of reserves having let some established stars leave the Beveree as his side went three months without a league win over Christmas and the new year.

But McPherson insists the recent revival - which has included wins over play-off chasing Bath City, Eastleigh as Hampton have climbed to 14th in the table - is reason for optimism.

“I’m delighted for Alan and the team. We fought hard, kept our discipline and never gave Chelmsford a moment to settle,” he said.

“I think that anyone who attended the game would agree the amount of chances we created and times we tested their keeper meant we thoroughly deserved the win.

“Positive result’s such as this - and recent victories over Bath and Eastleigh - re-affirms my belief that we would be in contention for the play off’s had we not suffered badly from injuries and suspensions.

“Hopefully the team can see the rest of the season out in a similar fashion and we can look forward to next season with renewed optimism.”

Goals from Dean Inman and Beadle gave Hampton a 2-1 win over Weston-Super-Mare on Saturday, as Hampton secured back-to-back league wins for only the second time this season.

The Beavers travel to relegated Weymouth on Saturday before visiting play-off chasing Thurrock on Tuesday.

Hampton’s final three games: Apr 17 Weymouth (a), 20 Thurrock (a), 24 Lewes (h).