THERE are so many reasons to be cheerful. Still in the FA Cup, top of the league, eight points ahead of Tranmere amd Grimbsy, and a crowd that has discovered its voice.

Of course there are rough edges, a consistently slow start being one, but with so many senior players injured, and a key member suspended we are still in a very good place.

This column is written by a true fan, and one who is certainly taking manager Ady Pennock's advice to all of us - enjoy the moment!

Key factors in an important win at Margate, and a crucial victory against Chester is how everyone has responded to the adoption of a new shape - 4-5-1 has been our formation in the last two games with Kurtis Guthrie playing a lone role up front, then Jon Parkin.

Everyone has responded well, and two people need special mention.

First, Elliot Frear, whose all-round game on Saturday showed how valuable he is. On the wing, sometimes in the centre, and finally wide on the right, Elliot showed his value as a team man.

He is probably cross about his finishing, but at least he was there to miss the chances he had.

A huge pat on the back also for Darren Carter who displayed plenty of energy in working hard between each penalty area, providing quality in whatever he did, especially supporting big Jon.

Pride of place, however, must go to our returning ring master Jon Parkin.

His vision, experience and energy made him my man of the match.

He was the fulcrum of the team.

When I saw him on his very first appearance at Brimscombe, I got it very wrong, describing him as "about as mobile as a barge on the Berkeley Ship Canal."

He proves me wrong every week. Well done J.P, and thank you for your praise of the crowd when you spoke immediately after kick-off.

The enthusiasm and consistent vocal support must have lifted the players. It was a joy to hear.

All this came after a slow start. We could have been 2-0 down but for a bad decision by the referee.

He correctly penalised a Rovers defender but awarded the free-kick just outside the penalty area. The offence was committed at least three feet inside the box.

The referee did not consult his assistant with the flag, and throughout the game there was minimal teamwork shown between the match officials.

What made the difference? After 20 minutes, Rovers began to play as we know they can. Was it the character of the team? Crowd support? Or Chester faltering?

Whatever the reason, the next 25 minutes ensured victory.

Fast, open football tore Chester apart, with two incisive goals being scored that won the match.

Of course Chester hit back in an even second-half spectacle, but the resolute Rovers did not wilt.

Back to Jon Parkin "last season we would have lost that game, but not now." He added what most of us realise, there is more character in the team.

Now for Wimbledon. Ady has one major problem. Who of Saturday's side will make way for Kurtis Guthrie?

One or two players took a knock on Saturday and were substituted before the end, one of them being Keanu Marsh Brown.

He can at times be anonymous, but remember the match-winning goals of the last two games.

Of course the cup tie can be won, but perhaps a draw might be the most likely result.

Whatever happens next Saturday evening, we will still be top of the league.

Yes, despite the early alarms, Saturday was a good day, not least because of the pre-match chat about the new supporters club.

Now we have one body working to support our club, and a big hooray for that, also for my tomato soup.

It was as delicious as the result.