SAM Higgins says he is looking to make another telling contribution for Canvey Island as they bid to defeat Haringey Borough on Sunday and secure an immediate return to the Isthmian Premier League.

The East Thurrock United captain signed dual registration forms with the Gulls at the end of March, making him eligible for Danny Heale’s team in their end-of-season play-offs.

Having netted 25 goals in the National League South this season, Higgins got his first goal in Canvey colours on Wednesday night as Bowers & Pitsea were beaten 2-0 at the Len Salmon Stadium.

And the striker now has his sights set on more goals come Sunday afternoon, having nodded in a cross from former Rocks team-mate Mitch Gilbey on the half hour.

“The team did very well and the defence in particular was excellent,” said Higgins.

“Bowers put a lot of pressure on us throughout the game but we defended well over the 90 minutes.

“We got goals at important times and being able to take a two goal lead into half-time was a big boost for the team.

“I am fortunate that I have played with a lot of the team before so it wasn’t all new to me,” he added.

“I know what Mitch can do and he has good quality from dead ball situations. Whitey [James White] came on in the second half and I have played with a lot of the guys in the past.

“I know the centre-half pairing of Nutsy [Steve Sheehan] and George [Allen] and I thought they did really well against a good attack. They helped us get the win.

“I don’t know too much about Haringey but I am looking to get more goals, of course.

“I know Heybridge Swifts were on a good run [before Haringey beat them 2-0 in the other play-off semi-final] so that is a good result for them.

“I am sure it will be another tough game but we are looking forward to it.”

The arrivals of Higgins and White to Canvey was the subject of widespread debate earlier this week, with many supporters critical of the Gulls’ decision to bolster the squad from a higher level.

But no rules were broken and Higgins says he was unconcerned by others views.

“I am not on social media so a few friends told me but I try and stay away from it all,” said Higgins.

“People talk a lot of rubbish and everyone had the opportunity to do what Canvey have done so fair play to them I say.”