“We needed to cut out the individual mistakes and then I feel that we can turn the corner - which I think the lads took on board against Loughborough.

“We certainly got big performances out of Eric Graves, Jonno Williams and the lads up front and we also kept the clean sheet.

“It’s about learning as a group and trying to maintain the standards that are going to get us there or thereabouts at the end of the season.”

Ruben Wiggins-Thomas opened the scoring for the Nailers before Ryan King made it 2-0 with his first goal for the club.

Palmer praised King for his positive play after he came off the bench but warned him that he will have to fight for his place in the team.

“Ryan knows that he’s going to have to fight for his place but it’s pleasing that’s he’s come on, been positive and had a couple of shots. Thankfully, one went in the bottom corner.

“I’m pleased for the lad because at the end of the day he’s come here to play football but the quality within our squad means that he will have to bide his time.

“But he has certainly put pressure on the starting eleven that’s for sure.

“That goal will instil confidence into the lad and for players like him it’s all about confidence.”

Palmer’s side are currently sitting in 13th place, but he believes that his team will soon be climbing the table and possibly worrying some of the teams towards the top.

“After the Loughborough match, the players will start believing in themselves and feeling that we have a chance of doing something if we maintain our standards.

Despite a night of positives for Belper, one major negative was the injury of Phil Watt (pictured), with Eric Graves having to cover at centre back for the last 20 minutes.

Palmer revealed that Watt had suffered concussion and suspects that he could possibly have broken his nose too.

“Knowing ‘Watty’, he’ll be there again for me on Saturday and I really need him because he’s a very good player”, added Palmer.