DARREN Manning believes Hullbridge Sports will continue to thrive despite seeing three key players depart for Basildon United.

Dan Okah has joined Rob Hodgson and Aundre Spencer, who made their debuts for the Bees in their goalless draw with AFC Sudbury on Saturday, at the Ho Ho Stadium.

Having seen a large number of players depart the Isthmian North high-flyers following budget cuts, Basildon joint-managers Lee Connor and Michael Walther have been working against the clock to rebuild their squad.

And Manning hopes to see the former Sports trio make an impact with the Bees.

“Seeing players leave the club can be difficult, but that’s football and we’ll be fine,” said the Hullbridge boss.

“Players coming and going happens at this level and, if anything, we should see it as a compliment that a team from a higher division is wanting our players.

“It shows that we are moving in the right direction and it’s testament to the players because, by playing well, they are putting themselves in the shop window.

“We want players that want to progress and move up the pyramid, so hopefully they will get their chance at Basildon and I wish them all the best at their new club.”

Hullbridge have made an impressive start to the Essex Senior League campaign and a 2-0 victory over West Essex - courtesy of goals from Nathan Scarborough and Michael Salako in the last two minutes of the encounter - allowed Sports to remain second in the standings.

And Manning was pleased to see his side claim back-to-back clean sheets, while also not giving up hope of securing all three points.

“We stuck to the gameplan for the whole match, which was nice to see,” added the former Grays Athletic assistant manager.

“We had enough chances in the game to kill the game off and West Essex would have been dead and buried by half-time.

“But it was good that the boys kept going and didn’t lose faith.

“It’s testament to the players and what we are doing.

“You could hear the senior players keep yelling to keep going, so that was good as well.

“It was pleasing to keep another clean sheet because they are important.

“If you are tight at the back and don’t concede goals, then you are going to be there or thereabouts come the end of the season.”

Jimmy Cox struck the crossbar with a penalty midway through the first half, but two late goals ensured Sports would triumph.