As Dover's relentless march on the Ryman League Premier Division title took them to within touching distance of promotion following Saturday’s goalless home draw against second-placed Staines, manager Andy Hessenthaler refused to lower his guard.

Staines were also held by Tonbridge on Tuesday, a result which leaves them 14 points behind Dover with eight games remaining, but Staines manager Steve Cordery has issued a defiant declaration that his club are not out of championship contention.

Hessenthaler, whose side stretched their unbeaten sequence to 17 games, said: “What Steve Cordery said keeps everyone on their toes.

“It’s ours to lose but he’s got to keep all his players focused, so I’m not in the least bit surprised to hear what he said.

“If I were in the same position, I would have said the same.

“You won’t find me talking about titles and promotions until the mathematics confirm we can celebrate.”

Dover travel to Billericay on Saturday and the Essex club were the last to beat Whites, 3-2, in a League Cup fifth round tie on February 24.

Hessenthaler said: “I made seven changes that night but I know that on their pitch, which is bobbly, they can make life difficult for anyone.”

Central defender Ollie Schulz remains out of contention with a hamstring strain while midfielder John Keister could return to face Billericay after a long-term hamstring problem which has kept him out since February 14.