GREAT Wakering Rovers will be targeting a top four spot in the Essex Senior League come 10pm tonight as they travel to struggling Hullbridge Sports.

While Rovers have won five of their last six matches in all competitions, Hullbridge are languishing near the foot of the division.

One win in their last six has seen Rob Hodgson’s team drop to third from bottom, albeit after a run of matches against opponents fighting at the top of the standings.

And Wakering manager Iain O’Connell admits this is a match Rovers need to be winning “We have to win this if we want to achieve our goals,” he said. “But we won’t show Hullbridge or Rob disrespect. They will be up for it and local derbies are always more difficult, with other factors to consider.

“(Striker) Jake Gordon is away on business which is a big blow for us as he has been on excellent form.

“Billy (Johnson) and Neil (Richmond) are doing well and, although the goals for column doesn’t look bad, we miss so many chances.

“We really need to start putting teams to the sword although tonight I will settle for the three points.

“We are doing well, but it matters in April not now. We need to stay in touch.”

Sports continue to be hampered by injuries – with more than 11 players currently sidelined and set to be unavailable.