Danny Heale believes a good result against promotion-chasing Met Police could kickstart Canvey Island’s season.

The Gulls travel to Met Police tonight, aiming to do something that no other side has managed this season – win at Imber Court.

The Met have won 12 and drawn two of their 14 home matches this term, but manager Heale wants his side to take inspiration from last season’s 1-0 win at the ground.

“On paper it is a difficult game for us considering both team’s form,” he said, having watched his side take only four points from the last 24 available. “Met Police are very good at home but maybe this is the sort of game that will get us going again.

“It is frustrating as we are not playing badly but we can’t get over the finishing line and get that win.

“We are doing OK but it is points that count, and we can take heart from last year’s win at their place and do our best to match it.”

Canvey threw away a two-goal lead against VCD Athletic to draw 2-2 on Saturday. The Gulls had Dave Collis sent off after goals from Steven Smith and Jay Curran had put the visitors in the driving seat.

And Heale said the red card changed the game.

“It was never a red card,” he said. “It totally changed the game. We were in total control until Collis was sent off and we couldn’t hold on.

“We just need something to go for us and we will start climbing the league.”

It was a 90th minute Rob Bartley goal that won the match last season, and the same man could play a part this term.

The central defender joined the Met at the start of the season and has been a crucial part of their impressive home run this term, making 26 appearances to date, scoring three goals.

And Heale says he hopes Canvey can tighten up at the back to keep the Met at bay.

“It will be nice to see Rob again but we need to focus on ourselves and make sure we come away with a positive result,” he added.