BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent skipper Matt Cripps hopes to continue his goal-scoring purple patch - but says his top priority will always be keeping them out at the other end.

The centre-half has led by example this week, chipping in with two winning goals in four days.

First he was on target with a 30-yard screamer in Saturday's FA Trophy success against Dereham Town.

Then he followed it up with another sweetly-struck effort in Tuesday's 2-1 Ryman League division north success against Great Wakering Rovers.

"I don't score many, so it's always a nice feeling and a bonus to get on the scoresheet," said the former FC Clacton, Stanway Rovers and Maldon and Tiptree man.

"It's not a big part of my game and I'm more concerned about keeping them out at the other end.

"I'm more interested in clean sheets than scoring myself, to be honest.

"But it's always good for players like myself to chip with a few as it takes the pressure off the frontmen.

"I always push forward for set-pieces and when we have them we always look dangerous, so I know there's always a chance of getting on the end of something."

After a spell of inconsistency, Regent have won their last three games - two in the league and one in the Trophy.

And Cripps hopes they can make it four in a row when they head to Aveley - now managed by former Maldon boss Terry Spillane - on Saturday.

"We'd been a bit up and down, conceding too many and a bit of a Jekyll and Hyde team," said the unflappable defender, who is known for his ability to get on the ball and pass it out from the back.

"In one half we'd be outstanding and then in the next we'd be really disappointing, undoing our good work.

"But it's amazing what a difference a few wins make.

"Suddenly the situation looks a lot brighter than two or three weeks ago and we believe we've turned a corner.

"The boys certainly feel more confident."

Regent handed a full debut to 16-year-old Rob Harvey on Tuesday night.

The attacking midfielder or striker also came on a substitute in the latter stages against Dereham.

"Rob's a good lad and all the boys have been impressed with him," said Cripps.

"He's got a big future ahead of him."

Cripps is also delighted to have former Clacton team-mate Aaron Condon with him at North Road.

"Azza has been a massive signing for us and hasn't looked back, since stepping up to Ryman League level," he said.

"Our other signings have been great, too, and now I really think we can push on."