MANAGER Tom Rothery insists no stone is being left unturned in his quest to drive Brightlingsea Regent up the Bostik League table.

The R’s won three and drew one of their opening four premier division fixtures this year but have since had their bubble burst by consecutive 3-2 defeats.

After losing by that score at home to Dorking Wanderers, they went down by the odd goal in five at Folkestone Invicta on Saturday.

In both matches, there were goals at either end in the closing stages.

While disappointed to finish empty-handed again, Rothery insists there has been no lack of hard work and dedication, both on his own part and that of the players.

“I’m like that in life,” he said.

“Whenever I do anything, I want to do it the very best of my ability.

“Whether it’s putting the bins out or being a football manager, I want to be the best I can be and I’m on my own case the whole time.

“It makes for a tough life but it’s just the way you are.

“You can’t change that and I hope that ultimately, being that way helps you achieve more.

“It’s just about striking that balance whereby you don’t let the negative emotions submerge you when things aren’t going so well.

“Whenever we win I’m immediately thinking about the next game.

“I’m not sitting back and basking in the glory.

“I’m happy, of course, but more than anything I’m thinking how can we now go on and win our next match.”

Ronnie Dolan put Folkestone ahead on the stroke of half-time during Saturday’s match and Joseph Taylor made it two on 57 minutes.

Top-scorer Billy Hunt pulled one back in the latter stages before Ian Draycott gave his side breathing space in the 88th minute.

Jake Turner then curled home a brilliant free-kick to reduce the arrears again, but it came too late to make a difference.

Brightlingsea, who have a league date against Margate at the Taydal Stadium on Saturday, had been due to host premier division leaders Billericay Town tonight.

However, the match has been postponed because Billericay have an FA Trophy third-round replay at home to Harrowgate Town, after the sides drew 2-2 on Saturday.

Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that Brightlingsea’s Tolleshunt D’Arcy Memorial Cup semi-final tie at home to Springfield will take place on Tuesday, February 20 (kick-off 8pm).

Springfield, a step seven side, reached the last four after an impressive win over Heybridge Swifts, advancing on penalties last Wednesday.

The other semi-final will see Wivenhoe Town take on FC Clacton on Wednesday, February 28.