LOOKING AHEAD: An FA Trophy win would have been the perfect tonic for Mark Bentley following a frustrating start to life at Canvey Island.

A loss and a draw in his first two games and the loss of the influential Mitch Gilbey and Jake Pitty would not have been in Bentley’s plans following his arrival almost three weeks ago.

But an excellent win against Cray Wanderers in the FA Trophy has lifted morale around the Frost Hire Stadium ahead of a visit to their Essex rivals.

The division newcomers are locked on 12 points, along with Canvey Island and have made a seamless transition to the Isthmian North following promotion last campaign.

MANAGER’S VIEW: “Coggeshall are well backed and want to progress,” said Bentley. “It will be difficult but we need to prepare correctly and go there with the right application and hopefully we can get a result.

“Coggeshall are what you might call the ‘Billericay of the Isthmian North’ but we have our own ambitions and want the points.

On Jake Pitty’s exit, Bentley added: “I wanted Jake to stay but he wanted a fresh start and I accept that. I wish him all the best.”

TEAM NEWS: Jake Pitty has joined Aveley. Jordan Cox is rated 50/50, Frankie Merrifield is also doubtful.