IT WAS character which was crucial against ex-boss Martin Ling's side today, as non-league Cambridge had a pile of chances but it was Orient who won.

With just seven days to go before League kicks off, Slade reckons his O's team is developing a winning mentality.

“I think there's a nice confidence about us” he said after watching his team win 3-1 at the Abbey stadium.

“I mixed and matched a bit today as there's player who need minutes on the pitch ahead of the start of the season and obviously I blooded one or two as well.

“It wasn't as flowing as we've been in previous games, we weren't quite as organised at we've been and we didn't pass the ball either.

“However, we've learned to win a game and that's what it's all about.”

While the manager had issues with some of Orient's play, he had only praise for Matthew Spring's goal from inside his own half on 82 minutes.

Calling it “exquisite”, Slade insisted the 30 year-old's massive chip was worth the price of a ticket on its own.