BOWERS & Pitsea will be looking to get their promotion charge back on track when AFC Sudbury visit the Len Salmon Stadium tomorrow.

Rob Small’s table-toppers have started 2019 with defeats to Heybridge Swifts and East Thurrock United in the Isthmian North and Essex Senior Cup respectively.

And Small is seeking three points to put a 16-point cushion between themselves and their sixth-placed visitors.

“The next game is always the biggest game,” said Small.

“The game is made even bigger because of it being on the back of a defeat at Heybridge.

“But it’s important that we respond correctly and keep our performance levels right.

“Our focus is on getting a top five spot and, with Sudbury being sixth, it’s a chance for us to put some more daylight between us and them.

“If, later in the season, a title charge comes about then that would be great.

“But, first and foremost, it’s about securing a place in the top five.”

Sudbury make the trip to south Essex having claimed four wins from their last five outings.

And Small is aware that Bowers will be tested in their attempts to garner three points.

“They are a top side who have got an experienced manager in Mark Morsley,” added the Bowers chief.

“Sudbury were top of the form guide ahead of their defeat to Aveley last weekend, so we know they are a threat.

“They are scoring goals at will and have some excellent players in their group.”

Despite being frustrated after missing out on a place in the semi-finals of the Essex Senior Cup at the hands of East Thurrock in midweek, the contest gave Small the opportunity to give game time to those looking to force their way back into Bowers’ starting line-up.

David Knight, Brad Warner and Ryan Sammons - who has played every minute of the Isthmian North season since his summer switch to the Len Salmon Stadium - came on as substitutes in the reverse.

And Small has a selection headache ahead of tomorrow’s encounter.

“I have a selection headache, but that’s what you want as a manager,” admitted Small.

“Lewis Manor is our football club’s talisman, but he has not made the team in either of the last two league matches.

“That tells you we are in a good place in terms of the personnel at the club.

“If selected, those who didn’t start on Tuesday will hopefully be fresh.”