by Andrew Gidley

Eight matches in the space of the next month could help or hinder Joe Dowley’s prospects of getting the manager’s job permanently at Sittingbourne.

Dowley (pictured) has been in caretaker charge for six games since Richard Brady left – five of them cup ties – and says league points are now his priority ahead of the Ryman League, Division 1 South home game against Croydon Athletic on Saturday.

The Brickies are playing catch-up with as many as three games in hand on the teams around them but Dowley said: "It’s going to be a busy time for us, but I don’t want to look too far ahead.

"Croydon are not going too great themselves but I am expecting another tough game."

Defender Jerry Nnamani returns after a three-match ban and Ryan Cooper, on loan from Dartford, could also be involved.