BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent manager James Webster believes his side’s adaptability has been key to their success this season.

The R’s have one hand on the Ryman League division north silverware after Saturday’s 2-1 victory at home to AFC Hornchurch.

It kept them nine points clear of second-placed Maldon and Tiptree, who won 3-0 at home to Wroxham.

And with just four games left, they are overwhelming favourites to land the title.

Webster is full of praise for his players and likes the way they have learnt to win by playing different ways.

“It was another great result at the weekend and the performance was excellent,” he said.

“Saturday was our toughest remaining fixture.

“Hornchurch were third, playing well and had a lot to play for themselves.

“But I was really proud of my players and think the biggest thing we’ve learnt over the last few weeks is how to win different ways.

“We played a lot of good football earlier in the season and were winning games, but at this stage it’s all about doing what you have to do to win.

“I wouldn’t say we’ve changed our philosophy, but you have to do what’s necessary to get over the line.

“Hornchurch are a big, tough, physical team to play against but I felt we really competed and never looked out of place.

“Every player, to a man, stood up to that challenge and got the better of their opponent and we didn’t really have that in our dressing room at the start of the season.

“We’ve had one style in the past.

“We’ve always tried to outplay people but if that hasn’t worked, we haven’t always had a plan B.

“Now we have and that’s something that’s evolved throughout the season.

“It’s the best squad I’ve ever had and I couldn’t ask for anything more from the players.”

Goals from Billy Hunt and Phil Kelly secured Saturday’s victory and while full of praise for his entire squad, Webster made special mention of defender Pip Boyland.

The ex-Stanway Rovers captain, who previously made over 200 appearances for Needham Market, has made a huge difference since joining in late January.

“I can’t speak highly enough of Pip and what he’s done for our dressing room, in terms of his leadership and organisation,” said Webster.

“He’s got so much experience and he’s great with the younger players.

“He’s a massive influence and because he’s a coach, he speaks so much sense when it comes to communicating with the players.

“It’s also another great attribute that he can play anywhere across the back four.

“He looks solid wherever he plays.”

Assuming Maldon keep winning, Regent, who have an inferior goal difference, need four points from their remaining fixtures.

They host Romford on Saturday while the Jammers entertain Dereham Town.

Brightlingsea then have Easter fixtures against Witham Town and Dereham, before finishing with a trip to Cheshunt on April 22.