RYMAN PREMIER LEAGUE: Winger Jack Simmons says Canvey Island have put pressure on themselves to get a result against second-placed Margate tomorrow after letting themselves down this week.

The Gulls went down 2-0 at AFC Hornchurch on Tuesday, failing to test defender Elliot Styles after he went in goal following the dismissal of their goalkeeper, while Canvey also missed a second-half penalty.

Simmons, 20, played 73 minutes of the defeat and said Canvey needed to build on the performance if they were to get anything against Margate.

“It was a game we needed to get something out of and the fact we didn’t puts even more pressure on us to get a result tomorrow,” he said.

“When you see the goalkeeper sent off and a defender go in goal it gives the players a huge incentive but we couldn’t create enough and capitalise on the advantage, which was unusual for us.

“We know a couple of good results will see us climb into mid-table and we don’t want to get dragged back into it. That said we know Margate are at the very top of their game and their big budget is well documented but that is something we just have to deal with.”

Simmons joined the club last October from Leiston, having come through the youth ranks at Colchester United having signed a first pro contract in 2013.

And the nippy winger is now hoping to dent Margate’s title ambitions with another affective performance tomorrow.

“I love a challenge and playing the big teams and in front of big crowds is why we do this.”

Simmons has contributed almost a dozen assists this term with his impressive wing play catching the eye of many Canvey supporters.

“I have been pleased with my own form and it is now up to me to add even more goals and assists to my own game.”