DANNY Heale says he is hugely excited ahead of tonight’s Isthmian North play-off against Bowers & Pitsea.

The Canvey Island manager will be presiding over his first play-off match as manager when the two teams line up at the Len Salmon Stadium.

The away side head to Bowers with a more experienced squad than their opponents, but Heale is not sure that will carry any sway once the game gets underway.

“It can go both ways,” said Heale. “We probably have more experience but youngsters play without fear and in their first play-off game that can help sometimes.

“When it comes down to it, I want it to be a good game that doesn’t come down to an individual error.

“It is the first time in a few years we are in this position where there is some silverware potentially on the line and we want to take our chance.

“There is a great atmosphere at the club and my message to the supporters is get down there and get behind the boys.”

Heale also reflected on the reaction to the news that he had added Sam Higgins and James White to his squad ahead of the clash, with many frustrated that the ruling permits such a deal.

And he said other managers competing in the play-offs have done exactly the same thing.

“We have used clever management,” he said. “I know for a fact that at least two other clubs in the play-offs tried to do or have done the same thing.

“There is no upset in the camp and a lot of our guys have played with Higgo and Whitey as well.

“People can talk about it but we are going there with one aim. If it doesn’t go our way we will shake Bowers hands and look forward.”