James Stokoe nailed his colours firmly to the Lymington & New Milton mast as their interminable wait for a win was finally ended at Fawcetts Field on Saturday.

After TEN straight defeats in the Southern Division 1 South & West, Linnets were boosted by a timely double from the former AFC Bournemouth and Eastleigh frontman, who is staying faithful to the club despite the recent 50 per cent budget cut.

Stokoe took just four minutes to get on the end of Sammy Carter's delicously curled free-kick and then struck again from 12 yards in the 33rd minute after good work by strike partner Ian Davies down the right.

League leaders Bashley and Winchester City both weighed in with notices of approach for Stokoe when Linnets' financial problems surfaced.

But, if ever there was a refreshing advert for loyalty, the striker provided it with a dedicated all-round performance.

Not only did he finish lethally, but he linked up play well and showed a maturity beyond his 21 years in the absence of former strike partner Danny Gibbons - one of four experienced players to have jumped ship since wages were cut.

"I had a word with James and told him he was a senior player now and we were looking for him to do a little bit more for the team because it was the only way we were going to get out of this rut," said Robinson.

"He responded with a terrific performance and today's result proved that sometimes good things can happen to people."

For full story see Monday Sport.