BALTI manager Marco Nott hailed striker Danny Andrews for his impressive campaign in the Dorset Premier League this term.

The hard-working frontman reached 30 goals for the season having scored during his team’s 3-2 defeat at Hamworthy Recreation on Saturday – the Weymouth outfit’s other strike came through an own goal.

Only Holt’s Nathan Saxby and Merley Cobham Sports striker, ex-Magpie Matt Groves, have more in the league and cup competitions than Andrews this season.

Saturday’s defeat was Balti’s final fixture of the campaign and, while their challenge for the league crown faded in the latter stages, manager Nott was keen to take the positives.

“It had been a positive season for sure,” boss Nott told Echosport.

“It’s a shame there was a bit of a lull at the end but, for players who haven’t played at this level, it’s a long season with an extra 10 or 12 games than the Senior League.

“I think at the start of the season we wanted to be top two or three to try and improve on fifth spot from last season.

“We have done that and have managed to bring four or five younger lads in for the future.”

Asked for his highlights of the campaign, Nott added: “Danny Andrews, to get 30 goals, is remarkable really.

“He has never really played at this standard properly or trained with any club before he joined us.

“He has come a long way and, for a little lad, to get 30 goals has been excellent.”

And looking to the future, Nott, who will now wait to see if his side finish second or third in the table while the remaining games are played, is optimistic about Balti’s chances next term.

“Our aim next year is definitely to go one better or two better if we finish third. There is no reason why not,” he said.

“We have quite a lot of belief from this season that we are a good side and we do warrant being there.”

Balti also awarded the captain’s armband to full-back Jason Pearce on Saturday, in what was set be his last ever game for the club.

Commenting on the defender, Nott added: “I am still trying to twist his arm into playing but, as it stands, he is retired.

“While he is still as good as he is, he should definitely carry on in my opinion!”

Balti: A Nott, Pearce, Anderson, Burton (Roberts), Proffitt, Devaney (Houghton), Lock (R Zima), Kenderdine, McClements, Andrews, Lane. Sub not used: M Nott