Dartford coach Steve Mosely hailed the impact of substitute Andy Pugh as they moved back into the play-off places on Saturday.

Pugh, on his way back from injury, was introduced earlier than planned during the 2-0 win over Maidenhead in National League South.

But he had an immediate impact in the first half with Darts scoring both goals within seven minutes of Pugh’s introduction.

“The idea was that we’d give Andy half-hour at the end,” said Mosely, who had to call on Pugh after Tom Bradbrook went off injured.

“We didn’t want to force him back too early. It was a bit earlier (than we expected) but he was straight back in it.

“He always makes something happen and at our level that is the hard bit.

“At the top end you need that creativity to score goals.”

Goals from Danny Harris and Elliot Bradbrook proved decisive for Dartford, who moved above Maidenhead and into the top five ahead of their long trip to Truro on Tuesday night.

“We knew what to expect,” added Mosely. “We were organised and handled most of it really well.

“We felt we didn’t start that great but the first goal changed the game and it gave us the confidence, the second then gave us the platform to see out the game.

“We’re happy to get the three points and keep a clean sheet. We thoroughly deserved it.”

The Darts were again without manager Tony Burman, who was taken ill prior to the Easter Monday game at Ebbsfleet.

Mosely was able to report good news, however. He said: “We’ve spoken to Tony quite a bit. He had some chest pains and has had some tests and it has all come back positive.

“Part of that performance was the players putting that in for him and hopefully we’ll see Tony back later in the week.”