‘We’ll get better’ - McNulty off to flying start at Bootle

Last week, McNulty took over after former boss Brian Richardson departed the club following their 4-1 defeat to Congleton Town in the Emirates FA Cup.

His first game in charge saw the Bucks edge a five-goal thriller at Trafford in the Pitching In NPL West Division.

And days later, it proved to be a managerial home debut to remember for McNulty as second half goals from Ben Hodkinson and Connor Millington helped the club come from behind to beat local rivals City of Liverpool and climb into the top half of the division.

Speaking after Monday’s derby day victory, he said: “First-half I thought we were sloppy. We weren’t our normal selves.

“I just don’t think we were playing with confidence, we weren’t looking to play the ball forward and there weren't enough options on the ball.

“We went in at half-time and told them to believe in themselves more. We knew if we got one we’d be right in it and we could go on and win the game, and luckily we did.”

McNulty was keen to stress the quality in the dressing room but has urged his squad to continue raising their levels following his arrival at the Berry Street Garage Stadium.

“They’ve all got ability. It’s just about giving them a lift and it looks like they've got one.

“Hopefully, we can take it forward,” he added. “We’re just starting off, we will get better. We’ll have time to work with them before the next game, it’ll be a lot better and we will see improvements.

“They showed massive character today... they all worked hard to a man.”

Photo credit: Will Griffiths