THE PREVIEW: Canvey Island and Maldon & Tiptree face off in what is expected to be a crunch clash in the race for Isthmian North promotion.

Fifth-placed Maldon make the trip to the Gulls a single point ahead of them in the standings, albeit having played two more matches.

And Canvey will not want to concede more ground in their top two bid, having drawn 2-2 in the reverse fixture.

Just one win in their last four games is not a run of form that will inspire Canvey fans, although they have been largely impressive against sides around them this term.

Maldon’s focal attacking threat will be Oluwole Akinsanya, while former Billericay Town defender Joe Ellul is a threat from set pieces.

A 3-2 win against Cheshunt on Tuesday lifted Maldon above Canvey, but can the Gulls turn the tables tomorrow?

THE INSIGHT: “We head into this match in good shape,” said Gulls chief Danny Heale. “We know it is going to be a tough game, as Maldon are one of the strongest teams in this division, but we are playing at home and we need to get a positive result.

“We play [third-placed] Potters Par Town next weekend as well, so we have a very big week ahead and everyone is aware of what needs to be done.

“We still believe we can get the second-placed spot in this league and our games in hand will be key in closing the gap to Bowers & Pitsea.”

THE TEAM NEWS: Canvey have a fully fit squad to select from.