BASILDON United goalkeeper Connor Wheatley is targeting silverware after making a positive impact between the posts.

The 22-year-old goalkeeper has been a standout performer for the Bees this term, having kept 12 clean sheets in the Essex Senior League and 17 in total to date.

He also saved two penalty kicks as Basildon saw off Barkingside in the Errington League Challenge Cup on Monday night, with Marc Harrison’s high-flyers advancing to the quarter-final stage as a result.

And the former Thurrock goalkeeper is determined to continue helping third-placed Basildon in their promotion bid this term.

“We know how good 2017 was for us,” said the custodian. “Ever since Marc and (assistant manager) Liam (Wallace) came in the team has been doing well and winning matches.

“We really believe in ourselves. Everyone around us didn’t expect us to do this well with new management and players joining from the Olympian leagues.

“But, in honesty, last year was nearly perfect for us. Things are slightly different now as teams know what to expect from us but we fancy ourselves.

“In the past four league games against Takeley, Clapton, Great Wakering and West Essex we have taken 10 points and conceded just one goal.

“If we keep that up we won’t be far away.”

Wheatley was named man-of-the-match in last November’s Essex Senior Cup quarter-final defeat against big-spending Billericay Town, saving a penalty and making a string of fine saves.

And the stopper said, while the match was a highlight, he is looking to create more happy memories this season.

“It is a massive highlight for us all as it was a reward for what we did in 2017,” he said. “To play at Billericay in front of so many people was unbelievable. We did well and kept them out for 70 minutes before their quality showed in the end.

“We got a good result against Barkingside on Monday as well and did well in the second half, after a few strong words at half-time from Marc.

“I have known Marc and Liam since I was a kid and I knew what good people and talented coaches they were. Coming here was a no-brainer and we now want to make sure we end the season with some silverware.”