Two goals from Donovan Simmonds set Dover on the road to a 3-1 win at home to Thurrock in Blue Square Bet South.

Nicky Forster took charge of his new side for the first time in a home league game, but the Crabble crowd had to wait until just before the break before the deadlock was broken.

Simmonds showed skill and finesse to open the scoring, looping a shot on the turn over Thurrock keeper Craig Holloway and under the bar on 41 minutes.

The home side doubled their advantage just before half-time as Glen Southam was fouled inside the area. James Walker converted from the penalty spot thanks to a fortunate deflection off the post.

Dover keeper Mikhael Jaimez-Ruiz was tested by the visitors on a couple of occasions as Thurrock threatened to come back into the game after the break.

But, Simmonds soon quashed any chances of a fightback on 69 minutes, bundling in the ball from a rebound. Shane Huke's effort was saved by Holloway and Simmonds pounced first following a strong run from Agustin Battipiedi.

Alex Osbourne headed in a consolation for Thurrock with two minutes to go as Dover were caught napping at the front post. Harry Baker was denied a late goal as he saw his 20-yard volley tipped around the post and George Purcell had an effort cleared off the line in stoppage time.

Donovan Simmonds, right, celebrates scoring the third goal on Saturday. Picture: Paul Amos

With a good run of fixtures ahead of them, are Dover quietly getting themselves into a promising position in the table? Have your say in the comments section below.