ANDREW Boyce’s match-winning header and Alex Wynter’s outstanding defensive block were the highlights of Eastleigh’s 1-0 win at Bromley.

But manager Ben Strevens applauded his entire team for keeping a much-needed clean sheet at Hayes Lane.

“It was a big win for us in terms of the way the boys defended – and that was to a man,” he said.

“I asked the boys up front to do a bit of a job and drop back into the midfield area where there were a lot of second balls to be won.

“It was tough at times with the lads at the back throwing themselves in front of shots and dealing with crosses.

"They (Bromley) have scored a lot of goals from set plays and we defended corners and long throws well.”

Strevens had spoken beforehand about the importance of giving more protection to young Reading loanee goalkeeper Luke Southwood.

“I’m really pleased Luke got his clean sheet today,” he said.

“He’s a great young goalie and Ross (Flitney, goalkeeper coach) has done loads of work with him about being positive. He’s come for crosses and taken some of the pressure off.”

The win leaves Eastleigh a point off the National League play-offs and the feeling in the camp is that they could be on the cusp of something special.

“From where we were at this stage last season to where we are now, we’ve made massive strides,” added Strevens.

“I’m greedy and so are the boys. We want to get into those play-off places.

"We’re not getting carried away, but now we’re in and around it, we’ve given ourselves a chance."