DAGENHAM and Redbridge boss John Still insists a play-off place would be the ‘icing on the cake’ of a ‘terrific’ season.

The Daggers have played their way back into contention after a recent slump in form by registering victories over Macclesfield and Port Vale, while a draw at Chesterfield has also helped their cause.

The Victoria Road outfit are now just four points off a top seven place, with seven games left to play. Still accepts that his side have over-achieved this season, but if the team can gatecrash the play-offs, the club will have exceeded all expectations.

“The win against Macclesfield has kept us in touch. There are still 21 points to play for and it is a real possibility for us (to get into the play-off places),” said Still.

“It’s been a terrific season for us and it’s great that we’re in the shake up for the play offs. We’ll be giving it our best and it would be the icing on the cake if we could do it.”

The Daggers’ late bid for promotion has been given a massive boost by the return of top scorer Paul Benson, who marked his comeback from a knee injury with a vital goal against Macclesfield on Saturday.

After coming on as a 67th minute substitute, it took the forward just four minutes to make an impact, as he reacted quickest to a Magnus Okuonghae knock down and lifted the ball over the keeper, bringing the team level before Matt Ritchie secured the points seven minutes from time.

Still acknowledged that Benson’s return was a well-timed lift for the club.

“You always want your top players in the side because you do miss them,” said the Daggers’ boss.

“Paul is a proven goalscorer at this level and it’s a good boost for the squad to have him back.”

Benson is likely to slot straight back into the line-up when he regains full match fitness, with Ben Strevens and impressive loan signing Jamie Guy to fight it out for the right to partner him.

Next up for the Daggers is Exeter City, who are one of the sides occupying a top seven place, and are a realistic benchmark for Still’s troops, as they sit nine points above them.

Dagenham have been enjoying their travels of late, having gone eight games without defeat on the road.

Exeter have 11 wins to their name at St James Park this season, although they have been susceptible at the back. The Grecians have conceded 46 goals in 40 matches, and the Daggers’ new-look frontline will be confident of adding a couple to that total.

The manager is adamant the squad is in good shape ahead of Saturday’s clash, despite coming to the end of a long season.

“Everyone’s happy and confident going into the game,” he added.

“The squad are fit and looking good.”