Lydd Town interim manager Ryan Smith has heaped praise on coach Will Graham.

The pair had never met before Graham joined the management team at the Lindsey Field.

But the arrangement is working nicely with the Lydders reeling off three successive victories - all without conceding.

“Will’s input to the team has been nothing short of outstanding in terms of shape and structure,” said Smith, speaking on Monday afternoon.

“I don’t think he’s had the credit he’s deserved in the past.

“I didn’t know him from Adam but he’s given me a good balance and it’s definitely a partnership.

“He’s got that attention to detail and he’s a good presence in the dressing room.

“He’s come in and given us that extra added spice.

“It’s going well. The players are reacting to the man-management and the tactics.

“There’s a buzz around the place and a lot of positive energy. Win, lose or draw, it’s more than football.

“We’re a family at Lydd. That energy is there. I’m seeing it.”

Lydd beat Sheppey Sports 4-0 in the Challenge Cup first round on Saturday.

Captain Sammy Adams broke the deadlock, Ryan Philpott scored twice in quick succession after the break and man-of-the-match Tom Walmsley added the fourth.

“It was a professional win,” said Smith.

“They missed some chances and my brother, Craig, made some good saves.

“Tyler Sterling was back in the team and he pulled one back to the edge of the area for Sammy to tuck in.

“Vinnie (Philpott’s nickname) then took over with his two goals, one of them a 30-yard half-volley, and Tom Walmsley, who was man-of-the-match for his work rate and graft, got the last one.”

Victory followed a 1-0 midweek success at Kennington in the Southern Counties East Premier Division, Kenny Pogue with an 86th-minute winner as the forward responded to being dropped.

“What a legend that man is,” said Smith.

“He’s been there and done and is a big character around the club.

“He was the first big signing, the season before last, the one that bridged the gap.”

Smith, meanwhile, feels Lydd are benefiting from Adams’ captaincy.

“Sammy is the right person to lead our club,” he said.

“Everywhere he’s been, he’s been captain.

“A lot of our disciplinary issues in the past - myself included - have been better and Sammy’s that calming influence.

“Forgetting his playing ability, his conduct, his personality and persona are what we need. I’m chuffed with that.”

Lydd’s scheduled league match against Faversham last night (Tuesday) was postponed due to the Lilywhites’ FA Cup commitments.

The Lydders visit Fisher this Saturday (3pm) and host Hollands & Blair on Wednesday (7.45pm).