Lowestoft Town joint boss Ady Gallagher has heaped praise on the attitude shown by Stuart Ainsley and hopes the rest of the Blues squad can follow the player's example this season.

The 24-year-old was a surprise inclusion at left-back on Saturday against Harrow Borough and put in an excellent performance, helping his side cruise to a 3-0 win against the visitors.

Ainsley has had to bide his time for an opportunity and Gallagher was delighted to see him take the chance with both hands as the competition for places hots up.

'It's not the biggest of squads but it is a very competitive squad – that's going to be key this year that the lads all push each other on,' said Gallagher, whose side go to Tilbury this weekend in the first qualifying round of the FA Cup. 'Take Stuart Ainsley, he came in on Saturday to fill in at left-back and did a tremendous job.

'He deserves credit because he has never been one to complain that he's not in the side – he has kept his head down and taken his chance when it came along.

'All the players could take a leaf out of his book because at some time or other over the course of the season everyone is going to find themselves on the bench.'

Lowestoft were in imperious form on Saturday as goals from Greg Crane, a Garry Jones OG and Chris Henderson saw them canter to all three points.

Gallagher was most pleased with his side's defensive display and is excited at seeing his side add a ruthless streak to their finishing.

'We were all chuffed with the performance on Saturday and it was really good to bounce back from what was a disappointing result against Margate,' he added. 'To keep a clean sheet is always a confidence boost for everyone.

'We want to be at our most clinical in all of the games – the reality is that some games are going to be tighter than others and it's important to take your chances when they come along.

'I remember against Harrow last year we got 1-0 up and then missed a hatful of chances before going on to lose 2-1.

'It's important to take your chances when they come along and we're pleased with the lads so far.'