Welling defender Steve Perkins admitted he was so nervous about coming back to the club that he couldn't sleep.

Perkins returned after a two-year absence and played a key role to help guide the Wings to their first Blue Square South win of the season over St Albans on Tuesday.

"Getting a win was the be all and end all," said Perkins. "I couldn't sleep the night before the game and then in the morning I was worried and was on the phone to my girlfriend.

"I wanted to play well and get through it, and desperately wanted to win - I think it's just brilliant that we got the three points.

"There were some new faces, a new way of playing and slight nerves so it all made for an interesting evening.

"But I was pleased with the way I played. I know I've got to get sharper and that will come with training and matches."

Perkins' return had been on the cards for some time, although it was only a series of injuries and the player returning from holiday that meant the deal was finally sealed.

"I'd been waiting and waiting for Hayes to make a decision," said Perkins. "I spoke to Andy at the end of last season and again in pre-season about the potential of coming back.

"It's always good to come back and play for a team and a manager that you have enjoyed playing for in the past.

"I didn't want to drop down to the league below as I still think I can do a job at Conference South.

"It's a good challenge for me to take on. I've really enjoyed it here before and hopefully it will be the same again."

Perkins, who revealed that he had attracted interest from Woking during the summer, left the Wings two years ago after failing to agree terms with then manager Neil Smith.

"I don't really know what happened when Neil Smith was here," said Perkins. "When he came in he wanted me to play a trial match and that put me off slightly.

"There was also the travelling that I had been doing for four years with Gravesend and Dagenham as well. I then got talking to Hayes & Yeading, which is only 20 minutes from me, and it was nice to have football that close to home."