JOHN Coventry is keen for East Thurrock United to build on a promising start to the campaign by securing all three points against strugglers Wingate & Finchley tomorrow.

Since suffering relegation from the National League South last term, Coventry has been made to contend with a number of player departures and injuries in recent months.

And, with that in mind, the Rocks chief insists finishing the campaign in their current position - sixth in the Isthmian Premier League standings - would be an impressive achievement.

“If we are anywhere near this position at the end of the season, it will be my biggest achievement ever,” said Coventry.

“Knowing what we are having to deal with, that would be massive.

“That will outdo reaching the FA Cup first round, winning the Essex Senior Cup and promotions.

“The great thing is that I have a small bunch of players that have been brilliant and loyal, while they also want to win games of football.

“I also have backroom staff who are fully behind me and understand the constraints we are working with.”

Wingate make the trip to Rookery Hill sitting in the relegation zone and having not won on the road this season.

But Coventry is refusing to take any notice of the visitors’ current position after a disappointing start to the campaign.

“It’s nice to be back at home and we’re looking forward to the game, but you can’t read into their current situation too much,” added Coventry.

“They recently changed managers and Spencer Knight has gone in there now.

“We know we will need to be at our best to beat them because, like us, they will be wanting to pick up points.”

Jack Giddens is expected to be fully fit after suffering an injury in the FA Trophy first qualifying round win over Cheshunt last weekend.

Adam Topley, who joined from Concord Rangers in the summer, is nearing a return.