Margate manager Iain O'Connell believes one of the main reasons behind his side's upturn in fortunes this season is the camaraderie between his players.

The Ryman League side got a reprieve from relegation last season because several sides above them went bust.

Since then O'Connell has rebuilt his side from scratch and they have now won four games on the spin.

"It's a new side but they're all tremendous lads and they get on brilliantly," he told BBC Radio Kent.

"We haven't got any bad apples in the side. It always helps when they're good friends - as a player I always had success with teams where the boys got on well.

"Obviously you've got to be a good player as well, but we've always had a good team spirit and that's one of the main things in my side now."

I know what the players want but if they don't reach that target they're not going to be disappointed and the same goes for me Margate manager Iain O'Connell

O'Connell, who spent nearly seven years as a player at Hartsdown Park, is enjoying his first full season in charge after being appointed manager last February.

"I love it. It took me a while to get the job but I always wanted the Margate job," O'Connell added.

"I love the club, love the supporters - I've always had a close tie there.

"There's a lot more pressure but if the boys keep playing like they are, then I'm sure we're going to have a good season."

Before the season started the Blues' boss said his main aim for this campaign was to avoid relegation, but after their promising start he is refusing to say whether his ambition has changed.

"I know where I want to be and the board have got their idea of where we want to be but I'm not going to put any targets down," O'Connell said.

"I know what the players want but if they don't reach that target they're not going to be disappointed and the same goes for me."

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