Goalkeeper Ashley Bayes believes he took his chance with both hands against Forest Green and it is now up to Chris Day to fight his way back into the team. Bayes was thrust back into the first team fold when Day was struck down with a stomach upset and r

Goalkeeper Ashley Bayes believes he took his chance with both hands against Forest Green and it is now up to Chris Day to fight his way back into the team.

Bayes was thrust back into the first team fold when Day was struck down with a stomach upset and responded with a polished display keeping Rovers at bay on several occasions to preserve Boro's third clean sheet in a row.

Bayes, who has been praised by manager Graham Westley for his influence on team spirit, was glad he could finally contribute on the pitch.

"I've sat on the bench for a long time but I've kept my head up," he told The Comet. "It was unlucky for Daisy because he fell ill in the week but luckily for me I've taken my chance and hopefully I can stay in there.

"I've been waiting a long time for this. I've not been used to sitting on the bench in the past. The gaffer has been great - I get on with him really well and he has given me my chance and hopefully I can stay in there."

When Bayes was brought on as a late substitute against Barrow in January many thought it would be his farewell appearance in front of the Boro faithful but the 36-year-old insists he has never thought about leaving the club.

"It's a great place to go into work every day so why would I want to leave? I love it here and I'm so delighted to get a game and hopefully I can get a few more under my belt now."

Manager Westley thought Bayes was Boro's man-of-the-match on Saturday and orchestrated his back four superbly.

"He was outstanding and probably my best player on the day. He did ever so well behind the back line - his voice was commanding.

"His kicking was excellent and he played his part in the last goal with his kick to Boylan in the right side channel. When he was called upon he also made some good saves.