BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent boss Tom Rothery insists his side are "not far off" becoming a winning team - and says confidence levels will be high going into Saturday's FA Cup showdown at Egham Town.

The R's are third from bottom in the Bostik League premier division and have only won one of their opening seven fixtures.

The most recent defeat was Saturday's 2-0 reverse at the hands of leaders Tonbridge Angels, at the Taydal Stadium.

But despite being hurt by his side's poor run, Rothery is adamant his players are making progress in a tough, uncompromising division.

“I’m never happy about losing," he told the Gazette.

“I beat myself up and am hyper-critical.

“I stew on it all weekend and it plays with your emotions.

“It's difficult and draining, both physically and mentally, but sometimes you have to take the positives and, in my opinion, we played well on Saturday.

"We were unfortunate not to get anything from the game.

“Tonbridge are top and they’ve only conceded one goal all season.

“But we had one early one-on-one opportunity, another ruled out after a very tight offside decision and two cleared off the line.

“Tonbridge had chances too but it wasn’t like they were opening us up at will.

“It was a very close game and they only added their second right at the end.

“You could see how relieved they were from the way they celebrated.

“We’re doing all we can and if we keep replicating that performance we’ll glean points.

"I’ve got no doubts about that and genuinely believe we’re not far off.

“That sounds a perverse thing to say when you’re third from bottom and losing games.

“But I’m not deluded. I’m sensible and pragmatic and genuinely believe we were unlucky to lose.

“Tonbridge are organised and well-drilled, with some experienced and talented individuals.

“They’re a top side but we played well."

Rothery says his players are singing from the same hymn sheet and maintains that spirits are still high.

“This division would be tough for most teams, even those with a really strong budget," he said.

“No-one wants to hear excuses but we have to be realistic.

“If we were being battered every week and not working hard I’d be more annoyed than anyone.

“But that’s not the case and the players aren’t stupid.

“They’re not delusional and they see what I’m seeing.

“We’re playing more football now and keeping the ball better.

“I want us to be pushing for the play-offs and love it when I hear the players talking along those lines.

“It’s the right mentality to have and I share that optimism, but it’s also important to be realistic."