BOWERS & Pitsea boss Rob Small believes that Canvey Island go into tonight’s Isthmian North play-off semi-final in a ‘no-win situation’.

The Gulls have signed Sam Higgins and James White on dual registration terms from East Thurrock United and the duo could feature at the Len Salmon Stadium.

The news of the signings, which were completed prior to the transfer deadline but kept under wraps, has resulted in some non-league fans criticising the Gulls.

And Small feels the outcry plays into Bowers’ hands.

Small said: “I read comments from the Canvey manager about the pressure being on us, but this puts them in a no-win situation.

“If they beat us, their achievement will be diluted by what they have done.

“But if they lose, then they will do so with the National League South’s top goalscorer in their team.

“It’s good for us really.”

Small, who confirmed he had enquired about signing National League South players but not simply for the play-offs, added he was surprised to hear Canvey boss Danny Heale believes Bowers are favourites to advance to the play-off final.

“I followed Canvey when they were in the National League and if I was a Canvey fan and saw my manager thought we were underdogs against Bowers, I would be underwhelmed,” he added.

“I’m looking forward to it and it’s nights like this that we have been striving for all season.”

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THE PREVIEW: It all comes down to this for Bowers & Pitsea and Canvey Island ahead of Sunday’s play-off final.

Only one will take on either Haringey Borough or Heybridge Swifts for the right to play in the Isthmian Premier League next season.

Who is the favourite? It is incredibly difficult to call at this stage. Bowers boast the best home record in the division and Canvey have been far from impressive on their travels in recent weeks.

Yet the dual registration signings of two quality additions - Sam Higgins and James White from East Thurrock United - could work as something of a leveller.

Both managers believe the other team is the favourite to win. It is almost time for the talking to stop and the match to begin.

MEN TO WATCH: Bowers’ Lewis Manor surpassed 100 goals for the club in the final game of term, while Ben Sartain and Callum Leahy offer invention and bite in central areas.

Canvey have goals in their front three and George Sykes, albeit without a goal in his last 15 matches, can be unplayable on his day.

WHEN & WHERE: Tonight at the Len Salmon Stadium, Crown Avenue, Pitsea, SS13 2BE. Kick-off 7:45pm.

ADMISSION: Adults £10, OAP/under-16s £5, under-12 £2.
THE TEAM NEWS: Bowers & Pitsea boast a fully fit squad for the encounter.

Canvey Island also have no injury concerns ahead of the game. 
Danny Heale has yet to decide whether Higgins and White will start for the visitors.