James Gray admits it is a massive weight off everyone’s shoulders after St Albans City ended their eight-match winless run on Saturday.

The Saints were looking over their shoulders in the Conference South after not winning since January but City eased the pressure with a much-needed 2-0 victory over Weston-super-Mare at Clarence Park.

Joint manager Gray said: “It’s a massive weight off everyone’s shoulders. It’s been getting really tense and every week was a slog for us. The confidence of the players was really low but we assessed what we needed to do and it’s paid off.

“It’s been a long time coming and the boys knew how important a win it was for us.

“I sensed before the game the players were in good spirits and they went out and put in a good performance.”

The manager added: “It’s a sense of relief for us because we have felt bright in training but not been able to translate that onto the pitch.”

City came into the match under pressure after four successive defeats and looking for their first win since beating Concord Rangers in the middle of January.

The Saints opened the scoring after just 11 minutes when Sam Corcoran fired a shot into the corner of the net.

It did not take long for the hosts to extend their lead when John Frendo netted from close range for his 40th goal in 70 league games for the club.

The victory means St Albans are now 13 points clear of the relegation zone in 16th place although they have played more games than all the sides below them.

The Saints signed former Chesham United striker Simon Thomas, who has scored 12 goals this season, and he made a big impression on his debut alongside Frendo in attack.

Gray said: “Simon had a great debut. The reason we brought him in is he offers us something different.

“He likes the physical side and he’s really strong in the air. We haven’t been able to change our style too much so getting hold of him will be a massive asset for the club.”

Gray was also encouraged by the initial signs of the partnership between goalscorer Frendo and their new signing.

He said: “I thought it worked wonders. Frendo had a new lease of life and showed his confidence is coming back.

“He just had a bit more spring in his step and I hope it develops into a good partnership between them during the rest of the season.”

The Saints are not in action this weekend, with their next game taking place on Saturday, March 28 at home to bottom side Staines Town.

The players will be given a break this weekend before they resume training ahead of their next match.

Gray said: “After the win it probably would have been good if we had another game this weekend.

“But on the other side, it could be good to have a rest for some of the players.”