WINCHESTER City reignited their Evo-Stik South West play-off push with a 3-0 home win over second-to-bottom Slimbridge.

But for the heroics of Swans keeper Oliver Hall, the Citizens would have had more.

But Hall’s opposite number Ryan Pryce also played a key part, saving a Marley Thomas penalty with City two up.

Player-boss Craig Davis struck with a sixth-minute free-kick – his first ever Winchester goal – and they doubled their advantage with a Henry Birkett own goal forced by Joe Hayward’s cross.

Pryce ensured that lead remained intact and, with 12 minutes left, Pat Cox popped up with a header from Ollie Griggs’ delivery to close the game out.

“We were far from our best second half when a strong wind pegged us back, but in the first half their keeper produced a catalogue of saves – not just routine saves, they were incredible,” marvelled Davis.

“But 3-0 was probably a fair reflection, albeit that we had a bit of good fortune.

"It was an important win for us. We’ve got nine games left, eight against teams who are in with a chance (of promotion).”

City sit just a point outside the play-off zone in seventh and Davis paid credit to the dedication of his players for getting back on track after three league games without a win.

“We’ve had trials and tribulations getting venues for training and the lads actually paid for their own venue last week. They’ve been a credit to themselves and the club,” he said.

Griggs’ initial month’s loan from Dorchester is over and it remains to be seen if the Magpies will agree to extend it.

Injured duo Liam Gilbert and Joe Cook did Saturday’s pre-match warm-up and there’s a chance Gilbert will make this weekend’s trip to Evesham. Cook may need a further week.