BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent manager Kem Izzet has challenged his players to build on their hugely-encouraging draw against Folkestone Invicta.

The R's boosted their survival chances with a hard-earned and deserved point against the previous BetVictor Isthmian League premier division leaders, on Saturday.

They also kept a clean sheet into the bargain, drawing 0-0 at the Taydal Stadium.

Even though they dropped a place to second from bottom in the table, it was an encouraging result and one Izzet hopes his players can replicate in this weekend's trip to Enfield Town.

"Myself and the lads had a chat after the recent Hornchurch game (which Regent lost 3-0 on December 28)," said the Colchester United hero.

"I told them that if they keep performing like that, they can't expect to wins games of football.

"Thankfully, to a man, they seemed to take those words on board and rose to the challenge on Saturday.

"We could have had a bit more quality but in terms of effort and workrate, I couldn't have asked for more.

"I'm sure most people wouldn't have expected us to get something against Folkestone.

"They were top of the table and in form, so to take a point was really encouraging.

"The boys did everything we asked of them and we had the best chance in the game, although a draw was a fair result.

"It's baby steps but the next challenge is whether we can become consistent and replicate performances like that, rather than just rising to the occasion because we were playing the leaders.

"Was it a one-off or can we do it again, against Enfield?

"We've got to try and do the same things and see where it takes us."

Izzet was particularly impressed with midfield trio Jordan Barnett, Jake Clowsley and Jake Turner.

"The three of them dominated the game," he said.

"It was great to see them in midfield together, stepping up to the plate and bringing lots of energy to the team.

"They're going to be key.

"I believe games are won or lost in midfield.

"If you dominate that area of the pitch, you've always got a high chance of winning the game or at least getting something from it."