Dartford boss Ady Pennock insisted he wasn’t gambling with team selection after making a host of changes for Saturday’s win at Canvey Island.

The Darts beat Cray Wanderers at home on Boxing Day and extended their unbeaten run in Isthmian Premier to 13 matches two days later.

It’s a tough schedule at this time of year and Pennock wasn’t going to take any chances, making six changes including leaving out skipper Josh Hill and the experienced Samir Carruthers.

“It was a no-brainer,” declared Pennock. “People asked me if it was a gamble but I didn’t see it as a gamble at all.

“I planned that before. To have two games in three days was crazy but it was the same for the opposition as well.

“I believe in my squad and the boys that came in at Canvey were fantastic and it shows we can call upon them at any time.

“They’ve been important as the subs have made a difference in every game we’ve played. I wasn’t afraid to make those changes and it paid off.

“They understand with the run that we’re on that they might be getting 20 or 30 minutes but they know that they’re so important to us. We’ve got a small, young squad and they’re ready. It’s a case of managing them and telling them the truth.

“There’s a togetherness in the changing room. Everyone knows their place in the team and squad, obviously everyone wants to start but I’ve been honest with them from day one so they all know the situation.

“Once they get that shirt then they’ve got to keep it. They’re good boys, they’re so honest and hungry to do well.”

Olly Box scored twice on Boxing Day to defeat Cray while Eddie Dsane – one of the players to come into the side – netted a first-half winner at Canvey.

Pennock added: “Cray are a good side, they were arguably the better team in the first half and I was pleased to get in at half-time just one goal down.

“In the second half, we showed a lot of character and scored two worldie goals from Olly Box, two fantastic strikes to win the game. We sent the fans home happy on Boxing Day which is what it was all about.

“At Canvey, the pitch was awful and it’s a very tough place to go. It’s one of those games where you’re just pleased you can get the three points.

“It’s been a good December for us, I’ve been pleased.”

Dartford visit Chatham on New Year’s Day before hosting Whitehawk in the league this Saturday.