Gary Abbott has hailed his young stars ahead of Saturday's Ryman League Division 1 South clash at Godalming Town.

Sittingbourne have endured a tough start to the season, but Abbott has seen his side string two wins together and believes it’s all down to his youngsters.

"The young lads have been brilliant. We’ve gone out and signed Sam Collins who’s been superb. He doesn’t mess about, he goes through people and he’s hard as nails – and he’s only 18," the Sittingbourne boss said.

"Laurence Harvey has been a rock too. We lost Matt Bourne and that was a big blow but Laurence has come in and he’s been magnificent in the last few games. He’s only 19 and he looks like he’s been playing with Matt Reed for years. They’ve turned it around."

Abbott (pictured) has bolstered his squad with the loan signing of another youngster in Tonbridge Angels midfielder Paul Semakula, who will go straight into the starting line-up to partner Collins at Godalming.

"Paul’s 21, but he’s got plenty of experience. He’s played in the Conference South and in the Ryman Premier. Hopefully he’ll do well and be here for a while," said Abbott.

Godalming sit top of the table, but it’s not something that fazes the Sittingbourne boss, who has Billy Manners available again after suspension.

"Godalming have made a great start, but we are not worried about them," he added.