DARREN Manning says Hullbridge Sports’ season is far from over despite ensuring they will be playing in the Essex Senior League next season.

Sports defeated Ilford 4-0 on Tuesday to move seven points clear of the drop zone with just two matches remaining.

But Manning, who replaced Rob Hodgson in November, said the players will need to prove they are good enough to play for the club next season in the final two matches.

“I now want six points from the final two games from the season,” said the Hullbridge manager. “Just because we are safe doesn’t change our approach and it is kind of a trial for next season.

“It is a test of mentality and I want to breed consistency. We have a very talented squad and I will do all I can to keep them here. I feel we have enough for us to go really well next year.”

Braces from Adebola Sotoyinbo and Luke Hornsley handed Sports an emphatic victory over mid-table Ilford.

It came just three days after a disappointing reverse against already Hackney Wick.

And Manning said getting the victory and upholding his promise to the club’s board when he took the job was very satisfying.

“It was massive for us,” said Manning. “We have known for the last few games we needed one more win and the boys were first class from the moment we turned up to the moment we went home.

“It’s a big weight off my shoulders as I made a promise when I took over and I have kept it. But all credit goes to the players and staff who have been brilliant since I came in.

“We were very professional after I questioned their desire following Saturday’s defeat.

“But they did everything I asked of them against Ilford and I am pleased for them all.”

>Basildon United can close the gap on Essex Senior League leaders Great Wakering Rovers to two points with victory against Stansted tonight.

The Bees will gain a further stranglehold on the top two with three points at the Ho Ho Stadium.

A second place finish will likely be enough to see Basildon promoted as one of 14 second placed team from step five.