The season can’t end soon enough now for Derek Hares’ bruised and battered Deal side.

They suffered their fourth successive defeat, a 4-0 loss to Holmesdale at Oakley Road on Tuesday night with Roy Godden, Danny Smith and Jack Collins all ruled out by hamstring injuries, Mo Takaloo (pictured) suspended and Darren Waring unavailable

And Holmesdale, grateful for the chance to play Deal again without penalty after their first Bulmers Cider Kent League meeting back in November was postponed because their players were on strike, took full advantage.

Deal assistant manager Andy Bigginton said: "You couldn’t fault the lads’ commitment but they are feeling tired now and all these injuries are taking their toll.

"The scoreline flattered Holmesdale but they deserved to win."

Deal make the return journey to Oakley Road on Saturday for their final match of the season against ground sharers, and beaten Umbro Kent Senior Trophy finalists Greenwich Borough.

Striker Sean Brown should be fit despite having to go off 15 minutes from time against Holmesdale with an ankle injury but Takaloo, although he has completed his two-match suspension, will again be missing because he is going on holiday.