CALLUM Chafer is keen to make the Bowers & Pitsea goalkeeping position his own after being drafted back into the side for the 2-0 win over Bishop’s Stortford.

Chafer had been replaced between the sticks by Colchester United loanee Callum Coulter for the last two Isthmian Premier League outings, but the former Romford custodian won his place back on his 23rd birthday.

And, having also been the first choice shot-stopper at each of his previous clubs, Chafer admits being dropped by boss Rob Small was difficult to accept.

“I’ve never really been involved in this situation during my short career,” said Chafer, who is enjoying a second spell with Bowers after returning from Hornchurch in the summer.

“It was difficult at times but I just had to accept that, as a team, we weren’t playing well and the manager felt the right thing to do was freshen it up in areas.

“Unfortunately, I was in one of the positions that it was felt a change was needed.

“It’s difficult as a goalkeeper because it’s not like you are going to be brought on as a substitute unless the goalkeeper on the pitch at the time gets injured or sent off.

“Outfield players are brought on with the hope that they will make an impact, but it’s not like that with goalkeepers.

“You are either in the team or out of the team. There is no in between.

“I had to accept the manager’s decision, get my head down and work harder in training.

“It has started to pan out in my favour now and I want to make sure I don’t lose my place in the team again.”

Bowers recorded their first victory in nine league outings as they overcame Bishop’s Stortford in midweek.

Callum Leahy gave Bowers a first half lead and Brad Warner ensured there was no way back for the visitors to the Len Salmon Stadium by netting seven minutes after the break.

The three points allowed Bowers to climb out of the Isthmian Premier League drop zone.

And Chafer is keen for Bowers, who are enjoying their first ever season in the third tier of non-league football, to build on the triumph.

“I’m hoping the win will end up being a turning point,” added Chafer.

“We have a string of home games now and that is good for us.

“It’s important that we take advantage of that by turning the games into points.

“We want to climb the table and we haven’t been getting the rub of the green so far this season.”