BORO S number one Alan Julian is hoping this week marks a change in the club s fortunes. A battling 1-0 win over Weymouth on Tuesday night – only their second victory of the campaign – followed a miserable defeat at Cambridge United on Saturday. Julian sa

BORO'S number one Alan Julian is hoping this week marks a change in the club's fortunes.

A battling 1-0 win over Weymouth on Tuesday night - only their second victory of the campaign - followed a miserable defeat at Cambridge United on Saturday.

Julian said: "Our crowd at Cambridge were brilliant.

"They were really encouraging the boys and it was good to repay them with a win on Tuesday.

"We were under pressure for the last 20 or 25 minutes against Weymouth but we got the result.

"All the lads tackled back and it was a good team effort.

"We know the fans want to win as much as the players.

"This result showed the team spirit in the side as the lads dug in."

Julian has started the last seven games since regaining his starting berth from Danny Potter.

"I was injured in pre-season but I got fit and took my chance when Danny was red carded.

"I get on really well with Danny and it helps to have a quality guy trying to take your place."

Boro have still only taken eight points from their first 10 games and sit fourth from bottom.

"We've got a lot of new players in and it does take time to gel as everybody says.

"I've every confidence in the manager and the other players.

"I love playing for the club. I've had some good times and want to really push on here.

"We won against Stafford and then lost the next two.

"Now this time we must kick on and we believe in what we've got.

"Whoever plays in front of me in central defence is more than capable, be it Santos (Gaia), Ronnie (Henry), Luke (Oliver) or Jason (Goodliffe)."

Boro boss Mark Stimson was understandably delighted with the midweek result and the manner of victory.

He said it was relatively easy to ensure spirits remained high after the two away defeats at Aldershot and Cambridge.

"We just kept telling the players how good being a footballer is. Don't feel sorry for yourself and realise it is a great job to have.

"The Weymouth game showed you don't always play pretty football; just watch the top teams - they all work so hard.

"We're going to have to battle for every game and every point from now on."

Boro now travel to Exeter on Saturday, a game which sees a return to St James' Park for Gaia and Dwane Lee.

Luke Oliver is available again after suspension but Adam Miller completes his ban.

Jon Nurse is returning from his loan spell at Woking on Monday while former England man Steve Guppy has extended his stay at the club until Christmas.

Gambian youth international Hasim Deen has been taken on trial from Margate while another youngster, midfielder David Hicks, has left the club after failing to cement a regular spot.