Deal have been dealt an injury blow with winger Tom Chapman set for a spell on the sidelines.

Chapman didn’t feature in either of the Hoops’ matches over the Bank Holiday weekend after he sustained a hamstring problem.

“We are probably looking at a month,” said Deal manager Steve King, who has brought in Herne Bay striker Rory Smith on dual-registration.

“It’s a standard hamstring injury, we have had it looked at.

“He will be trying to get back as quickly as he can. It’s frustrating but there’s not much we can do, unfortunately.”

The Hoops have, however, brought in Smith - who plays cricket for Sandwich in the summer - on a temporary basis as he re-unites with fellow frontman Aaron Millbank, who also recently joined Deal from Herne Bay.

King said: “I have known Rory a long time, we have always been close outside of football. It was a no-brainer from our point of view especially with Tom’s injury.

“He’s a different sort of player to what we have had in the past. But he’s a good player and a good lad as well.”

Smith played a key role on Saturday as they won 3-1 away to Alfold in the FA Vase First Qualifying Round through two Millbank penalties and a second-half effort by fellow striker Connor Coyne.

“We played well on Saturday, we controlled the game. The only disappointment was giving one away pretty much straight after we went 3-0 up,” said King.

“Rory did well but it was not an easy game for us. They are a young side, had lots of energy, so we are happy to get through.”

The Hoops, however, failed to build on that win on their return to league action as they were beaten 1-0 away to Kennington in the Southern Counties East Premier Division.

King reflected: “It was disappointing from our point of view but fair play to Kennington, they worked really hard.

“We got it, slightly, tactically wrong in the first half and didn’t play the pitch very well but we did better, second half.

“A few decisions went against us. We had a goal ruled out, which was onside, and we could have had a penalty. But the officials and decisions are what they are, we just need to get on with it.”

Fourth-placed Deal will host third-bottom Lordswood, who beat Hollands & Blair 1-0 to earn their first victory of the season on Monday, this Saturday.

“They had a good win and they have some good players. I think they have invested this summer,” said King.

“It’s always a tough game at Lordswood but we will train on Thursday and get ready for it.

“Monday was frustrating but it’s been a good start to the season on the whole.

“Four of our last five games have been away so we are looking forward to getting back at home. Hopefully, we can put on a performance in front of our home fans.”

Joe Reeves made his 150th club appearance at Alfold while Macauley Murray played his 100th match for the club against Kennington.