Mark Fell was the first to admit that the result was far more important than the performance as he watched Workington Reds come from behind to obtain three priceless points at Bamber Bridge.
“We found a way to win when not at our best and that victory was for our loyal band of supporters who helped us over the line,” said a delighted and, no doubt, relieved Reds’ boss.
His team, boosted by the return of several senior players and the loan signing of Connor Pani, had trailed to a 56th minute goal from Will Russ.
And for much of the second half had looked second best to a Brig side who were attempting to complete a league double over their Cumbrian rivals.
After a cautious first half lacking in clear goal scoring opportunities, the Preston outfit started the second brightly and almost doubled their lead when Finlay Heath’s angled shot kissed the crossbar.
Then, in the blink of an eye, a wonderful passage of play from Reds changed the complexion of the game.
Matty Clarke’s measured pass sent Steven Rigg clear down the inside-right channel and the top scorer blasted the ball past Charlie Casper for his 19th goal of the season.
The centre forward had endured a frustrating evening to that point but, once again, underlined his value to the team with a well taken equaliser.
And with just two minutes of normal time remaining, Reds completed an audacious smash-and-grab raid by netting the winner.
Dav Symington sent a teasing free-kick towards the far post and two of the substitutes, Jordan Little and Ruben Grewal, combined to grab the dramatic late decider.
Little climbed highest to meet the ball and headed back across the face of the goal where Grewal pounced to convert from close range.
Reds’ fourth away win of the season lifted them to 14th position in the table ahead of Saturday’s home game versus Hyde United.
