SHOLING’S 2-0 win over Hamworthy United on Saturday was an extra special result for Dan Miller.

What better way for the Boatmen’s towering, blond defender to celebrate his 22nd birthday!

Two impressive goals from the prolific Dan Mason - this tenth brace of the season - gave Sholing the upper hand, while Miller played his part in keeping a clean sheet, write Reece Peacham and Wendy Gee.

The three points kept Sholing fourth in the Sydenhams Premier table and the birthday boy was pleased with their afternoon’s work.

“It was a good result,” he smiled “We took a while to get there, but we got there in the end. We needed that second goal, but we worked hard as a group and got the win.”

It was Sholing’s second consecutive clean sheet at the Silverlake Arena – a source of satisfaction for Miller. “It’s pleasing,” he said. “Obviously the three points is the most important thing, but getting a clean sheet tops it off.”

Not only was Miller celebrating his birthday, he had also reached a personal landmark by making his 150th appearance for the Boatmen in their 3-2 comeback win at Brockenhurst on Thursday.

While Miller is now a seasoned Sholing performer, it’s just the beginning for young Kieran Winman, who made his debut against Hamworthy and helped set up the first goal.

After Barry Mason’s blocked shot had fallen into his path, Winman showed great composure to pick out Dan Mason, who turned and fired in a powerful shot off the far post with just three minutes gone.

It stayed that way until the 57th minute when goal machine Mason struck again, banging home Jake Hoole’s low cross for his 35th of the season.

Impressed by Winman’s instant impact, Miller said: “It’s good to see youngsters coming up to the first team and proving themselves. It shows what we’ve got coming through the youth. It’s pleasing, especially for (manager) Dave Diaper.”

With nine league games still to cram in, Sholing have another busy week ahead with away games at Moneyfields tomorrow (Tuesday) and Folland Sports (Thursday) followed by Whitchurch United’s visit to the Silverlake Arena on Saturday.

“Obviously it’s tough having so many games in a week but, with the weather, you can’t really help it,” said Miller.

“But we’ve got a good bunch of lads working hard and good depth in the team.”