MATT Price believes Bowers & Pitsea have enough quality to reach the Isthmian North play-offs this season.

Price bagged his first Bowers goal in Saturday's 2-1 win against local rivals Basildon United.

And the striker is certain James Collins' side can secure a top five finish.

"The minimum is the play-offs for us and I think the squad is definitely good enough to achieve that otherwise I wouldn't have gone there," said Price.

"After being here a couple of weeks and bedding in the squad is definitely good enough to push on and get into the play-offs where anything can happen."

Price made his third appearance for Bowers at the weekend.

But he is already feeling settled at the Len Salmon Stadium.

"I'm really enjoying it and I have to give massive credit to James," said Price.

"He's put a lot of trust in me and took a bit of a gamble bringing me in.

"I just want to repay him for that now and when you're enjoying your football it's easier to play well.

"James and all the boys have really welcomed me in and it's nice to be playing with a smile again."

Price was certainly smiling on Saturday as he fired Bowers in front against Basildon.

But the striker took more satisfaction from winning the game.

"It was really pleasing," said Price.

"For all the fans and everyone at the club it's obviously a local derby so it's good to get the win.

"But the main thing for us was to get the three points and not get caught up in the occasion.

"For me it's been a bit of an indifferent season so far and, while I'm not worried who is scoring if we're winning, obviously it's nice."

Manny Oluwasemo made it 2-0 to Bowers before Ben Allen netted for Basildon four minutes from time in their first game since the departure of manager Darren Manning.

Bowers are now fifth in the table with Basildon third.