Sam Denly says the 4-0 win over East Grinstead on Tuesday was the perfect response after his side’s FA Cup exit at Tonbridge.

Dan Parkinson scored twice, with Stephen Ita and returning Danny Williams getting the other goals against the Ryman League, Division 1 South newboys from West Sussex, who have now conceded 15 goals in their last three matches.

Denly said of the midweek win: “We were good and played some excellent football.

“Stuart King and Nathan Eastwood were both back but Kingy had to come off after an hour still struggling with his groin and could struggle to be fit for the weekend.”

Gary Sayer could return at leaders Burgess Hill on Saturday but Ben Brown, Sam Hasler and Danny Walder are still out, while Jamie Turner faces a scan on his long-term ankle injury next week, having been sidelined since last season.

The Winch’s Field boss was in philosophical mood, reflecting on the 6-0 weekend drubbing when Bay conceded three goals in 19 minutes before half-time in the FA Cup first qualifying round match.

Denly said: “ The defeat didn’t faze me or worry me. Don’t get me wrong, it was a disappointing performance but we had lots of injuries with nine first team players all missing.”

Bay’s win over East Grinstead leaves them seventh and Denly said: “I would have taken that at the beginning of the season.

“Burgess Hill are top of the league and a good side but we will go there full of confidence.”