BRIGHTLINGSEA REGENT boss James Webster has hailed the character of his in-form players - but admitted he could be without four of them for tonight’s derby at WITHAM TOWN.

The North Road side pulled off a sensational 3-2 victory at Ryman League north division title-chasers Cray Wanderers on Saturday.

It was the second time in five days they had fought-back from two-down, having battled to snatch a well-earned point in Tuesday’s 2-2 draw against Thurrock.

Those results have driven Regent to the cusp of the play-offs and they now sit seventh, just two points and two places behind Harlow Town.

“We showed huge character in those games,” said a delighted Webster, whose side are unbeaten in seven matches, since their home defeat against Tilbury on December 15.

“To come from two-down in both, against two of the best teams at this level, is a huge achievement.

“It shows that hard work gets rewards.”

While delighted by his side’s heroics, Webster is sweating on the fitness of three key players - and admits it would be a “big blow” to be without them at the Village Glass Stadium.

One player definitely out is striker Terry Rymer, who is serving an additional three-match ban for violent conduct, following his sending off in the Tilbury defeat.

He has already missed three matches, but the punishment was extended as a result of the referee’s report.

“(Former Witham man) Shamido Pedulu came on as substitute on Saturday but his knee went again, so it’s very frustrating both for him and us,” added Webster.

“Phil Kelly is very similar in that he thinks his groin injury feels okay until he runs.

“Then it’s very painful, so both are big doubts for tonight and probably Saturday, too.

“The other injury concern is (captain) Matt Cripps, with a recurrence of a back injury that we’ve been trying to manage all season.

“It would be a big blow to have all three of them missing for such a big local derby game.”

Elsewhere tonight, HEYBRIDGE SWIFTS will hope to make Essex Senior Cup progress when they welcome Aveley to Scraley Road.

The sides are set to meet in a rearranged quarter-final.

The tie was due to take place last week but had to be postponed because of a water-logged pitch.

MALDON & TIPTREE have arranged a mid-season friendly at home to Southend Manor (kick-off 7.30m).