Hastings preserved their Ryman Premier status by easing to a 3-0 win at Leyton on the final weekend of the regular campaign.

The U's actually finished 14th - three points clear of the drop zone - to consolidate the previous season's against-the-odds promotion via the play-offs.

The Hastings skipper was full of praise for manager Tony Dolby and assistant Mike Rutherford who were instrumental in turning things around at The Pilot Field.

"It was as big an achievement as promotion last year," he said. "We had a bad run during the Christmas period and looking at the position we were in it's been brilliant to do it. You can't underestimate the role of anyone. Dobbler (Dolby) has come in and done a superb job.

"There's been a lot more coaching and it's rubbed off on the lads and they've made us believe. They are football people."

Commenting on the last day win over Leyton, Elford went on: "It was almost like a cup final and the fans were absolutely fantastic. They have been brilliant at every away game this season. It would just be nice to have the same amount of noise at The Pilot Field."

Hastings chairman Dave Walters has this week been holding talks with Dolby about continuing as manager.

The ex-Tonbridge Angels boss was brought in during January with the sole purpose of steering The U's clear of relegation.

Speaking immediately after the win over Leyton, Dolby said: "I'm sure I'll talk with the chairman over the next couple of days and see what his intentions are for the club and work it out from there."