REDDITCH United manager Liam McDonald has praised his players’ efforts after they stretched their winning streak in the Southern League Premier to five games.

The 2-0 win at home to Frome and 2-1 victory at Hereford United over the Bank Holiday weekend have propelled the Reds to second in the table.

Striker Jamie Spencer made the difference, coming off the bench in both matches to score the all-important goals.

He bagged a brace against Frome on Saturday and two days later, scored the winner to send a 94-strong travelling army of Redditch supporters into raptures at Edgar Street.

Monday’s derby clash had been played in front of an intimidating crowd of 617, but McDonald was impressed by his young side’s maturity, particularly after Jim Mutton’s straight red card.

The highly-rated centre back, 19, is set to start a three-match ban next month.

McDonald said: “It was a great performance by the lads.

“I am not sure the referee could cope with the occasion, it’s not often you get crowds as big as 600 in the Southern League.

“But the team produced a great backs-to-the wall display and I felt we could win the game.

“Jamie is a match-winner, I had told him he’d get one chance so he’d better score.

“Last season we would have drawn that game but Jamie is an old fashioned number nine who scores goals and he will make a difference.

“He’s like Drew Roberts at St Neots, someone who will score goals regularly.”

McDonald was also full of praise for the large contingent of United fans who made the trip to Hereford. Redditch’s strong end to last season and their blistering start to this campaign has enticed supporters back to the Valley Stadium.

United have only had three games at home but attracted attendances of 278 for Cambridge and 258 for Frome.

United are set to tackle Dunstable away on Saturday (3pm ko).

l The club have a number of offers for Redditch's home clash against Poole Town on Saturday, September 6, to help promote National Non-League Day.

Under-15s supporters will be able to get in for free, while season ticket holders from other clubs can take advantage of a half price discount.

There will also be a free pint of beer for paying adults.