JOHN Coventry has called on his East Thurrock United team to be more clinical in front of goal against Witham Town after they missed a host of chances at the weekend.

Rocks lost 2-1 at struggling Hampton & Richmond Borough on Saturday, and Coventry said it was a game his team should have won comfortably.

He was also critical of the officials, after a key refereeing decision went the way of the host in the Ryman Premier League clash.

“They were gifted a goal in the first-half,” said Coventry. “Their lad was a long was offside and I have no idea how it wasn’t spotted.

“But when we got back into the game I fancied us to go on and win it.”

But Simon Peddie’s equaliser was cancelled out by a 70th-minute winner, sending Rocks home empty-handed.

“We should have won it but we were to blame for their second goal,” Coventry added.

“We need to get over this one and make sure we get the win we deserved on Saturday against Witham.”

Witham are only outside the drop zone on goal difference after a tricky start since promotion last term, but Coventry expects a tough test from Garry Kimble’s men.

“They are very hard-working and will make life very difficult for us,” he said.

“I think they may have surprised a few people and have only lost three of 10 games. Momentum is proving to be key for them.”

Coventry confirmed Mitchell Gilbey, Lewis Smith and Connor Witherspoon would be back in contention at Spa Road tonight after being rested on Saturday.

Elsewhere Great Wakering Rovers will be looking to make it three games without defeat and back-to-back wins at Thamesmead Town.

Wakering are off the bottom of Ryman One North for the first time in a month after a 3-2 win at Barkingside and manager Dan Trenkel wants his team to continue their improved form.

Thamesmead sit mid-table after a positive start to the season and have won four of their six home games.

Billy Radley is doubtful for the clash with a dead leg but former Hullbridge Sports man Tom Ranger comes into the squad.

>GREAT Wakering Rovers midfielder Dave Collins has left the club in search of first-team football.

Collins re-signed for the club for a second spell in September 2012, helping them to the Essex Senior League and a League Cup double last term.