Another week of mixed results but the overriding feeling is that of disappointment.

Mixed results against those embroiled in a relegation battle isn’t good enough at this stage, in the position the Daggers currently occupy. 

The performance on Tuesday night away to Gateshead matched the result in many ways, lethargic and uninspiring - little sign of any sort of urgency to win the game. 

This came just a few days after Ben Strevens’ men got out of jail in Torquay thanks to a late, late Inih Effiong winner. 

In that encounter there was a real lack of quality on display for large parts and against a side like Torquay who - for all their fight - didn’t show much quality themselves, it wasn’t as comfortable a victory as Dagenham would like. 

The three points were gained nonetheless, more than can be said for the disastrous display on Tuesday. Perhaps the only positive to take is as Strevens alluded to in his interview with Daggers TV in that ‘it gives [him] clarity for the short-medium and longer term’.

If this was to be a honeymoon period following his appointment, perhaps Strevens wouldn’t see the radical overhaul needed in personnel and style. In giving the existing players the game time and not bringing anybody new in he can make clearer judgements on where to strengthen for next season. 

Unfortunately, the Daggers remain seven points adrift of the play-offs, results going their way on Tuesday only adds to the frustration of what could’ve been. But games like Tuesday prove just why this team remains just outside the top seven with a failure to capitalise on rivals dropping points, in games they should be winning. 

However, we are now looking ahead as we return to Victoria Road after travelling up and down the country. And a special mention to the 42 who travelled up to Gateshead on Tuesday - incredible support! 

The opposition today is Dorking, a good side who sit comfortably in the middle of the table - and the reverse fixture is all you need to look at to show it won’t be an easy game. 

That away trip to Dorking was quite possibly the worst performance of the season, though there have been a few shockers this campaign, but it was a game that the Daggers never got involved in for 90-plus minutes. 

Following Tuesday’s defeat, Strevens expects a response and strength of character on display and those involved in the 5-1 defeat earlier in the season will have that added incentive to put that right. 

Marc White’s Dorking side have picked up some impressive results in recent weeks but their form on the road has seen them winless in eight matches, hopefully a revitalised Dagenham side can extend that run to nine. 

Whatever the outcome, hopefully we see a reaction today and the team put in a performance that we can be proud of. 

Come On You Daggers!