JOHN Mills celebrated his 28th birthday in style by firing Hereford FC four points clear at the top of the Evo-Stik Southern Premier.

The marksman has been benched in recent weeks following an injury but following back-to-back defeats manager Pete Beadle gave him the number nine shirt against Frome Town.

Mills repaid his manager by causing problems for the visitors defence before firing home his 26th league goal of the season at the second attempt on 36 minutes.

He now hopes to hit the 40 to 45 mark with just nine games to be played.

"It's nice to be back starting but more importantly three points after the last couple of games the boys knew we needed the big win and we didn't care how we got it but 1-0 we will take all day long," said Mills.

"I've had to bide my time but hopefully today after getting the goal I will keep on going and hopefully keep the shirt.

"It's nice to get a 1-0 win and a goal on my birthday but most importantly the three points.

Mills has become a favourite with the Edgar Street faithful who have been chanting his name when he was not selected.

"It probably doesn't do me any favours but it's nice to know they want me on the pitch and I've got a good relationship with the fans, I appreciate what they do for me and I hope that they appreciate what I do.

"I will hopefully hit 40 or 45 but we will see how it goes. As long as we keep winning games I will be happy."

Beadle said that tonight was the right time to introduce Mills back to the starting line-up to give his team a lift after Saturday's defeat.

He added: “He’s been chomping at the bit to get back in but we’ve had to manage it. He’s created three or four tonight and took his goal really well and given everybody a lift.

“We have had to manage John and that’s why we brought him off with 10 minutes to go as he has been out for six weeks. I’m in a rock and a hard place as if don’t bring him off and he pulls a hamstring they will ask me why I didn’t.

“He has put in a good shift and won us the game so I gave him a rest. He’s there when we want him but the team isn’t built around John, he is a huge asset for us and people talk about my relationship with him is a good working relationship.

“His performances this year have been great and have got better as the season has gone on. It’s just a shame he’s been hampered by this little niggle with his knee.

“We have to take care of him and make sure he’s fresh and ready and tonight was right to bring him in and give one or two a lift and he got his goal.

“He’s had a great season and hopefully he’ll get another one Saturday."