Deal manager Derek Hares has challenged his side to start delivering on a regular basis following their impressive run.

Deal beat Kent League title challengers Holmesdale 2-1 on Saturday in the Kent Senior Trophy, just a week after a 1-0 win in the second leg of the Premier Division Cup, and Hares wants that form to become routine.

He said: “You can notice the difference in confidence. I’ve always thought I had a decent squad but we lacked consistency. I’m hoping we’ve turned a corner now.

“I’ve been pleased with the performances in the last three games and couldn’t ask for more from the players – we just need to do that consistently. If we do then we’ll be looking good for a top-six finish.”

Deal are back in league action this weekend and host second-from-bottom Lordswood.

Town won their last league outing 5-1 at Erith & Belvedere and Hayes is hoping to welcome back hat-trick hero Stuart Vahid after an ankle injury.

Fellow front-man Mark Pollard is also available following a three-game ban but may be on the bench.