Carshalton Athletic manager Tommy Williams praised his team's spirit which saw them rise off the bottom of the Ryman Premier by leapfrogging opponents Thurrock, writes James Barrett.
Two goals by in-form striker Nathaniel Pinney and a first of the season from Pelayo Pico Gomez were enough to seal a 3-1 win, only their second away league triumph this season.
"The entire squad was up for this one and our hard working performance, on a difficult playing surface, was there for all to see," said Williams. "I took a lot of positives from losing against Canvey last week, where we didn't quite get the rub of the green, and felt confident we could get a result."
After taking a two-goal lead before the hour, the Robins survived a 77th minute Thurrock goal and a subsequent strike that hit a post before Pinney killed off the match with a ferocious strike for his second on 86 minutes.
And, although the teams around Carshalton have played less games, all Williams is focused on are his side's upcoming fixtures.
"Bearing in mind where the two teams sat before kick-off it wasn't unusual for people to call this a "must-win" for us. However the hard work, which started last week, continues going into Tuesday's game against Wingate," he added. "The fact we are now off the bottom gives everyone connected with the club a boost but every game is important moving forward.
"With Ola Sogbanmu out injured we pushed Pico Gomez forward and I thought he did well in that role, taking his goal with aplomb."
Carshalton Athletic welcome Wingate and Finchley to Colston Avenue on Tuesday 19th February, kick-off 7.45pm.