BASILDON United are heading into tonight’s Essex Senior Cup clash with Dagenham & Redbridge on a high.

The Bees went third in the Isthmian North standings after beating Gorleston 2-1 at the The TLM Environmental Stadium on Saturday.

And boss Darren Manning is now turning his sights onto this evening’s third round clash with the Daggers in what will be his last game at the club.

“It’s a big game for the football club,” Manning told Bees TV.

“We’re playing a National League side and it’s big for the football club.

“But for us it’s just another game and we prepare like normal before going out looking to get another victory.”

Basildon emerged victorious at the weekend, thanks to a last gasp goal from the in-form Samir Ali.

But Manning thought his side were fortunate to pick up all three points.

“I’m a firm believer that you get what you deserve over a period of time but I don’t think we did on Saturday,” said Manning.

“We didn’t deserve to win the game in my opinion.

“I’m very proud of the boys that we have won but in terms of the performance I thought Gorleston were good value for at least a point.

“They were the better team but we’ve got a real steeliness about us at the moment and we don’t know how to lose.

“It’s a fantastic trait to have and winning becomes a habit.

“We have that at the moment and it’s a brilliant place to be.”

Basildon have also been grateful for the fine form of goalkeeper George Marsh who was again impressive at the weekend.

And his performance earned praise from Manning.

“He made some really good saves and I keep on forgetting he saved a penalty,” said Manning.

“They had a goal disallowed as well so I’m sure they’re feeling hard done by.

“Full credit to them though because I thought they were very good and I wish them all the best for the rest of the season.”

Basildon are now unbeaten in eight games but Manning remains unsure if Saturday’s winner, scored by Ali, should have been given.

“I don’t know if it went over the line or not but the lino was adamant it did.

“Samir sniffs out a goal and he’s done that very well this year since coming in.

“He knows where the back of the net is and he’s got himself into that position to score.

“You can’t coach that.”

Elsewhere in the Essex Senior Cup tonight, Billericay Town, who are fourth in the Isthmian Premier League head to Walthamstow who are eighth in Isthmian North.

Canvey Island host White Ensign and Hashtag United are at Hornchurch.