TOWN front-runner Danny Cadamarteri made the perfect impact as he netted his first goal of the season just nine minutes after coming on as a substitute in Saturday’s 2-2 home draw with struggling Cheltenham.

The 29-year-old striker, who has been dogged by a persistent calf problem over the past few weeks, put Town back on course after they had slipped two goals behind in his first appearance for three games.

“Danny wasn’t fit to play the full 90 minutes because he had only trained for two days, but he made a fantastic contribution,” said Town boss Lee Clark.

“That’s why it is disappointing when we are without someone like him and I thought all three subs – Danny, Lionel (Ainsworth) and Michael (Flynn) – all made big contributions to get us back into the game.”

Clark also reserved special praise for midfielder Flynn who has battled back into contention for a first team place.

“Michael did very well and he has a terrific attitude,” said Clark.

“He was the only senior player in the reserves (at Hartlepool) on Wednesday night and he was top class – not only in his performance but also in the way he conducted himself.

“He also trains very well every single day and he deserves his chance at this moment in time.”

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And Clark also had a word for Robbie Williams who saw his 84th-minutepenalty saved by Scott Brown.

“Gary (Roberts) usually takes the penalties, but everyone on the bench knew Robbie was next in line,” said Clark. “He had the bravery to step up and I will never criticise a player for missing a penalty as it’s a pressure situation – it was just one of those things.”