A WIN at Hampton and Richmond in the FA Cup on Saturday could prove to be the perfect kickstart to Dagenham's season, according to Sam Sloma.

The midfielder played at Hampton during a loan spell in his Wimbledon days and knows it will be a tough game. But he is confident that the team is capable of pulling off a result to move into the second round.

"Although we've lost our last two away games, the performances have been better," he said. "We've started to look like the team we were last year and we're not far off where we want to be.

"Hopefully we can get the win on Saturday and then carry it into some league form. First though, we need to focus on one game at a time by going there and putting in a good performance. A lot of our lads have come from that league so it will be very tight."

Daggers have not lived up to the high expectations that came with running away with the Conference title last year. At Victoria Road, in particularl, they have struggled to pick up results, although their away form - with the exception of the last two games - has been an improvement.

"We need to stick together and work it out," Sloma (pictured) said. "There are times in football when things aren't going well. Last year we were playing bad at times and winning, this year we're playing well and losing. It's all about finding a balance.

"We have to remember that it is our first season in the league. We are determined to enjoy it as well as looking to start stringing a couple of result together."

He added: "Our home form is a bit of a mystery to us and not one I can immediately put my finger on. Perhaps it is the higher expectation when playing at home. Whatever it is we are determined to put it right."

Sloma has been a regular feature in the Daggers side this season but admits he has not quite hit top form. But he is determined to show the manager and fans what he can do for the good of the team.

"I think I can do better," the 25 -year-old said. "I started quite well but then wasn't in the side as the manager tried different things.

"That's the thing about Dagenham - it's not just about one player but about the team working hard for each other. If someone is not playing well then the others can help out with hard work."