BRIDPORT boss Jamie Manley insists the Bees are “a lot stronger” than before he took over the helm.

Manley has guided the Bees to four league victories under his stewardship, including a 4-0 thrashing of Chipping Sodbury Town in his opening game.

His record of four wins, one draw and 15 losses in all competitions also compares favourably to predecessor Rich Robson, who claimed one win, a draw and eight losses in his 10-game tenure.

Manley has also guided Bridport out of the relegation zone – the Bees lie in 18th of 21 teams with 14 games to play.

Speaking to Echosport, Manley is encouraged by Bridport’s upward trend.

He said: “It’s been ups and downs. I came in and started with a great result, then there was a bad run with a couple of really bad results.

“That was always going to happen until I got the players in that I knew could step up and play at this level, it was always going to be tricky.

“If you look since I got all the players I wanted in, you can just see the results. We’re not far off from turning losses into wins.

“I’m happy with the way we’re going, of course I’d like to be a few more points in front (of the drop zone).

“I think at least a couple of games we could’ve (taken) more from. All in all, I’m happy with the squad I’ve got.

“We’ve had a big turnaround of players which is what was needed at the club.

“We’re a lot stronger now than when I took over. If you look at that side of things, we’re going in the right direction.”