CANVEY Island captain Jay Curran says getting through to first round of the FA Cup would be “at the very top” of his achievements in football.

The 29-year-old scored his 100th goal for the club in August but says helping the Gulls to victory over Conference South frontrunners Havant & Waterlooville would surpass that landmark.

The skipper has been banned for the last six games, after picking up a red card against Leatherhead five weeks ago and says he is pleased he is able to return for the fourth qualifying round clash.

“Games like this don’t come around too often,” he said. “The chance to play in the first round of the cup is huge for non-league players so it is important to make these moments count.

“When you retire these are the games you look back on and tell people about. The dressing room is buzzing at the moment.

“Going through would rank at the very top of what I have achieved.”

Curran added the home draw was also a big boost, with all three of their previous games – against Hertford Town, Burnham and Barton Rovers – all away from the Prospects Stadium.

“It is nice to get a home draw,” he said. “We have played three away games and performed well but this is the round you want to get a home draw. We should get a good crowd.

“We came close last year against Biggleswade Town (losing 1-0 in the fourth qualifying round) and this may be a tougher draw but we embrace that challenge.”

The team has won four of the six games in Curran’s absence, but he says he has been doing everything possible to ensure he leads his team out against the third placed Conference South outfit.

“I have missed a few games but I have been keeping myself fit and have played in a few reserve games recently so I feel good.

“But the team has played well. Aside from the Hornchurch game last weekend we have picked up a lot of points and maybe it was a case of the boys having half an eye on this game in that match.”

Danny Heale is sweating on the fitness of star striker John Sands, who is doubtful with a groin strain. Sands has scored five goals in his last six games, including the winner in the last round against Barton.

Full-back Ashley Dumas is the only other injury doubt.