Boss Kevin Watson reckons there’s little between most Isthmian Premier clubs as Herne Bay battle to avoid relegation.

Watson and assistant Adam Flanagan tasted defeat for the first time at Winch’s Field on Boxing Day, losing 2-1 to Folkestone in controversial fashion.

That came after three successive league draws but Watson is remaining upbeat ahead of second-bottom Bay’s trip to promotion-chasing Cray Wanderers on Monday.

He said: “When we had the games called off, we went and watched Cray and Canvey. I have not yet, in this league, seen a vast difference between any of the teams if I’m completely honest.

“No result really shocks you. It may initially but, with over half the season left, I think the table could look quite different at the end.

“We just need to be hopeful that it looks different for us.”

The Wands are managed by former Bromley boss Neil Smith, who signed a two-year contract in May.

• Report: Herne Bay 1-2 Folkestone

• Bay boss on controversial derby defeat

On ex-Gillingham midfielder Smith, Watson said: “He had a good run at Bromley, didn’t he?

"He’s an experienced manager and he’s got some good players down there.”

Bay had several penalty protests waved away against Folkestone while captain Laurence Harvey’s last-gasp equaliser was ruled out for offside.

But Watson remained in a positive frame of mind and praised the club’s support.

He said: “I don’t think the lads gave up. It’s tough for them at the moment.

“It’s just about accountability, really.

"We just need to focus on the things that we can impact, keep working hard on training and try to keep things buoyant as a group.

“The support is great. The fans are great towards the players because what I think the fans can see is they’re trying.

“Even at the death, they’re trying and don’t chuck the towel in so that’s a good sign for us.”

While full-back Harrison Hatfull has swiftly left - before even making a competitive appearance - Rory Smith started against Folkestone while fellow frontman Marcel Barrington was a second-half substitute on their respective injury returns.

“Once we get them back, it’s healthy competition in the squad,” said Watson, who also had left-back Jack Parter - an unused substitute - making his first competitive return since October.

“It’ll bring a different dimension in terms of the way we can play and set up and stuff like that.”