Two of the best sides in Isthmian South East lock horns in a Kent derby tonight.

Sittingbourne put their 11-match unbeaten run on the line against Hythe at Woodstock (7.45pm).

The Brickies haven’t lost in the league since the opening day and sit third.

Hythe, last season’s play-off finalists, are handily placed in ninth with games in hand on all but one of the sides above them.

“It’ll be a real ding-dong game,” said Brickies boss Ryan Maxwell, whose side drew 0-0 at Lancing on Saturday.

“This is why we do it - the bigger the game, the better.

“That’s how I feel and I’m sure the players feel the same.

“There’s still only three points available but it’s a big game.

“Both teams are going well - Hythe had a great win against Tonbridge in the FA Trophy last week - and I expect a really tough game.

“This is the most competitive Step 4 I can remember. There are so many strong teams and you’ve got to be at it every game.

“We’ve got momentum, we’re 11 unbeaten, and we’re looking forward to the game.

“We’re at home, so we approach it with confidence.

“It’s a big game for us and for them and may the best team win.”

Hythe travel to Sittingbourne on the back of a 4-0 win at Phoenix on Saturday.

Cannons boss Steve Watt is full of respect for the work his opposite number has done in transforming the Brickies’ fortunes.

They’re firmly in the promotion picture having been in the relegation zone when Maxwell took charge in January.

“Ryan’s done an incredible job - one of the best in the league, this season and last,” said Watt.

“The success he’s had since he’s been there is brilliant.

“He’s built a team that’s really difficult to beat, they’re 11 unbeaten, so we’ve got a massive task ahead of us. He deserves the utmost credit.

“I said before the season started I expected them to be up there because I could see what he was building last year and he’s continued to do that this year.

“I can’t speak highly enough of the job he’s done and I’m sure Sittingbourne will continue to do well.”