Fast-Improving Shots Do It For Their Tragic Trio

Former Shots stalwart Chris Barker died on Friday, their old defender’s sudden death causing shockwaves within the game.

It was an emotional week for everyone connected after the passing of lifelong supporters Tony Brooker and Ron Boyd announced as well.

Searle says sadness inspired the players as they won 2-1 at the Racecourse, a result which moved the club seven points clear of trouble.

They have now taken ten points from a possible 12 and the manager knew how to dedicate their latest win.

“It is a fitting tribute to the three people the club have lost this week,” he told the club’s video service. “It’s hard at any club when things happen off the pitch.

“Football is emotional, you get excited but when it comes down to it, it’s a massive family, football.

“It’s like a proper relationship. You love each other one minute, hate each other the next! It goes round in circles, but it was a tribute to three big parts of Aldershot Town.”

Searle thinks his players are now playing for each other with just one loss - at league leaders Barrow - since the infamous 6-1 drubbing at Dagenham.

“Everything we based ourselves on is around our work ethic,” he added.

“The players are playing with great confidence and it’s fantastic to see. The only disappointment is that we have let in a goal.”

PICTURE BY IAN MORSMAN