MATT COMPTON says belief has been a vital aspect of Deeside Dragons’ superb start to the season.

The Dragons, third in Division One North, failed in their quest to grab a ninth win in a row as they lost out 6-4 during their trip to Nottingham Lions.

Even so, it has been some turnaround from the team since a tough weekend towards the start of the campaign which saw heavy losses versus Billingham Stars and Blackburn Hawks.

“It was really tough with the start to the season,” said assistant head coach Compton.

“The Saturday in Billingham, we didn’t get going and we were still short of a few players.

“Then we started gelling. We had Jake (Witkowski), Matt Croyle and Garry (Simpson) coming in.

“Everybody knew we needed to be better and we started turning the corner.

“We got a bit of belief. We know we’re a good hockey team and it’s just believing it.

“The changing room this year is so much stronger. We don’t panic any more.

“If we concede a goal, the mindset is we will get it back.

“The attitude is always a positive one.”