As comprehensive as it was unexpected, this thrilling victory was the perfect embodiment of Kevin Dillon’s pre-match request to his players – "express yourself".
Now seven games unbeaten and moving quietly into the League Two Play-Off zone, Aldershot Town’s flowing and fluid passing style returned with a vengeance, and the hitherto miserly Dagenham defence were left a crumpled heap in its wake.
The highlight was surely Andy Sandell’s 52nd minute volley – smashing an out-swinging corner into the net from 20 yards – but this was virtually the complete away performance, full of cohesion, vigour and no little flair.
Dillon, of course, was disappointed at having conceded two goals – one a penalty after a needless handball from the otherwise imperious Charles; the other just seconds after Aldershot had re-taken the lead – but was nonetheless full of praise for his team.
The Shots dominated the opening 45 minutes but, with Charles heading them into the lead only to stupidly handle the ball during a bout of head-tennis, they found themselves level at the break.
The second-half, though, was a joy to behold: Dagenham re-started at a much higher tempo but Aldershot simply raised their own game to match. Twumasi equalised a second time with a drive which Jaimez-Ruiz might have saved, but thereafter The Shots pulled away with ease.
Morgan’s lightning-quick turn and shot restored their lead, and the points were safe when Marlon Jackson, face in the turf, scrambled the ball over the line at the third attempt.
Soares gracefully added the fifth in injury time to seal a stunning victory which proved, beyond question, that this team can still win – and win in style.